Outlook Business Desk
The Karnataka cabinet approved on Thursday, October 9, one paid menstrual leave day each month for women across various sectors, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announcing on X (formerly twitter) that the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025 promotes dignity, well-being, and inclusive workplaces.
HK Patil, Karnataka’s Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, stated that the new menstrual leave will cover women across all sectors, including IT and garment industries.
The cabinet also cleared the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The amendment increases financial support for six existing labour welfare schemes, including educational incentives for organised workers and their dependents, strengthening worker benefits across the state.
Infrastructure development also received approval for reconstructing and rehabilitating 39 major bridges at an estimated cost of ₹1,000 crore in the first phase. This project aims to enhance connectivity and transportation safety in Karnataka.
The cabinet also cleared the purchase of an Aerial Ladder Platform Vehicle worth ₹16 crore for the Fire and Emergency Services Department. With a reach of 52–54 metres, it will enhance disaster response capabilities for high-rise buildings in Karnataka’s cities.
Aurad City Municipal Council will be formed in Bidar district by upgrading Aurad Town Panchayat. Additional approvals include Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) projects at Nagasandra, covering operation of a 20 MLD Used Water Treatment Plant and 5 MLD Intermediate Sewage Pumping Stations.
Karnataka is also planning to set up a new autonomous medical college at Kanakapura with an annual intake of 150 students. Estimated at ₹550 crore, the project includes a 300-bed teaching hospital, hostels, staff quarters, and complete academic facilities funded by Rajiv Gandhi University.
The cabinet approved ₹70 crore for renovating CPC Polytechnic in Mysuru and adding new facilities. Additionally, ₹50 crore will be spent on upgrading Chintamani Polytechnic, including auditorium construction and infrastructure improvements.
First-phase eco-tourism development at Devikarani Estate in Tataguni will cost ₹55.33 crore. The cabinet also approved commercial tech park development in Mangaluru and nine acres of Gairan land in Belagavi for educational purposes, supporting tourism and infrastructure growth.