Bengaluru, 31 October 2025: The Faculty of Management Studies – Centre for Management Studies (FMS–CMS), JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), organised a panel discussion titled “Time to Talk: Menstrual Leave Policies and the Future of Workplace” on 31 October 2025 at Seminar Hall 4, FMS–CMS Main Block. The session brought together experts from healthcare, industry, academia, and social entrepreneurship to examine the evolving discourse on menstrual leave policies and their impact on workplace wellbeing.
The one-hour discussion was coordinated by Dr Chaya Bagrecha, Dr Tejaswini S, and Dr Anusha S Sangondimath, and featured distinguished panellists:
The event explored the complexities of menstrual equity in professional spaces, addressing the need for policy reform, cultural sensitivity, and employee-centric wellbeing frameworks. Discussions highlighted the medical realities of menstruation, the vulnerabilities women may experience during this period, and the significance of adequate rest as a legitimate health requirement rather than a discretionary convenience. The session generated important insights to support the ongoing ICSSR-funded research project on menstrual leave policies and their implications for future workplace structures.
Dr Lavanya Kiran, speaking on the physical demands of menstruation, stated: “Menstruation is not merely a routine biological process. For many women, it involves genuine discomfort, fatigue, and reduced physical capacity. Recognising this through formal workplace policies is a step towards building environments that prioritise employee health with dignity and empathy.”
Reflecting on the academic significance of the event, Dr Shradha Kanwar added:
“The conversation around menstrual leave requires evidence-based dialogue. By bringing together practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders, we are paving the way for informed policies that promote inclusivity and long-term organisational wellbeing.”
The panel concluded that menstrual leave policies, when thoughtfully designed, can contribute to healthier, more equitable workplaces. The outcomes from this discussion will inform future policy recommendations and upcoming engagements under the ICSSR research initiative.
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