Kerala Proposes Three-Day Menstrual Leave for Schoolgirls

Kerala announced a proposal for three days of monthly menstrual leave for schoolgirls on 29 May 2026. The proposal formed part of the policy address delivered in the Kerala State Assembly by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar under the V. D. Satheesan-led United Democratic Front government.

Menstrual Leave in India

Menstrual leave is a workplace or institutional leave provision that allows women or girls to take time off during menstruation. India does not have a uniform national law on menstrual leave for all employees or students, and such provisions have been introduced by individual institutions, universities, or state-level measures.

Project Menstrual Dignity and School Support

The Kerala proposal is linked with Project Menstrual Dignity, which is a women and child-friendly initiative. The project covers educational institutions and public spaces, and the government also plans weekend catch-up classes for students who use menstrual leave.

Crèches and Workplace Welfare Provisions

The policy address included a plan for workplaces with more than 50 employees to provide safe daycare centres and crèches. The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, contains provisions related to crèche facilities for establishments that meet the prescribed employee threshold.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, is a central law on maternity-related benefits in India.
• Kerala has proposed monthly menstrual leave for schoolgirls, not for all women workers.
• Project Menstrual Dignity is linked with women and child-friendly facilities in Kerala.
• Crèche facilities are a statutory welfare measure in certain workplaces under Indian labour law.

Related Precedents

Bihar introduced menstrual leave for women employees in the 1990s. Some higher education institutions and courts in India have also considered menstrual leave-related measures for students or workers.