Engineering and construction giant Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has introduced a one-day paid menstrual leave for its women employees. The announcement was made by the company’s chairman and managing director, S. N. Subrahmanyam, during an event on International Women’s Day. The policy will benefit around 5,000 women employees working at L&T’s headquarters but will not apply to its subsidiaries involved in financial services or technology.
L&T has a total workforce of 60,000 employees, with women making up about 9% of its staff. This move comes shortly after Subrahmanyam faced criticism for comments suggesting employees should work 90 hours a week and avoid staring at their wives.
While companies like Swiggy and Zomato have previously implemented menstrual leave policies, most large business groups in India have yet to adopt similar measures. In 2024, the Supreme Court also suggested that the government create a formal policy on menstrual leave.
Importance of Menstrual Leave for Women
Menstrual leave is essential because it acknowledges the physical and emotional challenges many women experience during their menstrual cycle. While some may have mild discomfort, others suffer from severe pain, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and mood swings. Conditions such as dysmenorrhea (painful periods) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can make it difficult for women to work efficiently during this time.
Allowing menstrual leave ensures that women do not have to push themselves to work through pain or take unpaid leave when they need rest. It promotes a healthier work environment by recognizing women’s biological needs rather than expecting them to perform as if these challenges do not exist.
This policy also helps reduce the stigma around menstruation by encouraging open discussions in workplaces and fostering a culture where women’s health is taken seriously. When companies introduce menstrual leave, it shows that they care about employee well-being, leading to higher morale, better job satisfaction, and increased productivity in the long run.
Offering menstrual leave also supports gender inclusivity and workplace equality. Just as employees can take sick leave when unwell, menstrual leave acknowledges that menstrual health is a legitimate concern, not just a personal issue. It allows women to perform at their best on other days without being burdened by discomfort or exhaustion.
By implementing such policies, companies support women’s health, improve work-life balance, and create a more inclusive and empathetic work culture.
-
-
-
-
-
-
