When considering the array of 51 optional subjects for the UPSC Mains Examination, Sociology consistently stands out as a top choice. Its inherent appeal lies in its accessibility and intriguing exploration of humanity and society, catering even to students from  Science and Commerce backgrounds. With a well-defined UPSC sociology syllabus comprising only 13 units, Sociology can be comprehensively covered within 5 to 6 Month Comprehensive “Foundation to Finale” Classroom Programme, Many of Our Sociology Foundation Course Students have Cleared CSE 2023- Kajal Singh, First Attempt (Age 22) Mahi Sharma, First Mains (Age 23), Anand Sharma First Mains and Many Others. Previously also Many students like IAS Pradeep Singh, IAS Ashish, IPS Bindu Madhav, IPS Aparna Gautam, IPS Shahnaz Illyas got Success in CSE in First Attempt with Sociology Optional.

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best sociology coaching in Delhi. If you are away from Old Rajendra Nagar, Delhi, you can still complete Journey of UPSC civil service preparation through online Sociology class The  scientific nature of Sociology, coupled with its direct applicability to daily social interactions, renders it a subject that can be comprehended without extensive reference materials, distinguishing it from other optional subjects requiring extensive reading and research.

Reproductive Health

Odisha Introduces One-Day Menstrual Leave for Women Employees on Independence Day

In a significant move, the Odisha government has announced a one-day menstrual leave policy for women employees working in both the state government and private sector. This announcement was made by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida during the district-level Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack.

Effective immediately, the policy allows women employees to take leave on either the first or second day of their menstrual cycle, aiming to better support women’s health and well-being. This initiative aligns with the broader conversation around menstrual leave policies in India.

Currently, Bihar and Kerala are the only Indian states with implemented menstrual leave policies. While the Right of Women to Menstrual Leave and Free Access to Menstrual Health Products Bill, 2022, proposes three days of paid leave for women and transwomen during menstruation, the bill has yet to be enacted.

Odisha’s move to introduce a one-day menstrual leave policy is a significant step forward in supporting women’s health and well-being in the workplace. This policy recognizes the physical and emotional challenges that women face during their menstrual cycle and aims to provide them with the necessary support and flexibility to manage their health effectively.

The introduction of this policy on Independence Day serves as a symbolic gesture, highlighting the government’s commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equality in the workforce. By extending this leave to both the public and private sectors, Odisha sets an example for other states to follow, fostering a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women.

As the nation celebrates its 75th Independence Day, Odisha’s one-day menstrual leave policy stands as a testament to the progress being made in addressing women’s health issues and promoting their rights in the workplace. This move not only benefits women employees but also contributes to creating a more equitable and empowered society.

The Supreme Court recently urged the central government to create a model policy on menstrual leave for female employees, emphasizing that this matter falls under the domain of policy-making rather than judicial intervention. Currently, only Bihar and Kerala have implemented menstrual leave policies in India. Bihar introduced its policy in 1992, allowing women two days of paid menstrual leave each month. In 2023, Kerala expanded its policy to include female students in all universities and institutions, granting them menstrual leave along with up to 60 days of maternity leave for female students over 18.

Some private companies in India, such as Zomato, have also adopted menstrual leave policies, with Zomato providing 10 days of paid period leave annually since 2020. Despite these initiatives, there is no national law governing menstrual leave in India. Previous attempts to pass related legislation, including the Menstruation Benefits Bill, 2017, and the Women’s Sexual, Reproductive, and Menstrual Rights Bill, 2018, have not been successful. However, Odisha’s recent policy marks a significant advancement in recognizing and addressing the needs of women in the workplace.

This development aligns with the ongoing discussion about menstrual leave policies in India, as the Right of Women to Menstrual Leave and Free Access to Menstrual Health Products Bill, 2022, proposes three days of paid leave for women and transwomen during menstruation but has yet to be enacted. The Supreme Court’s call for a model policy reflects a growing awareness of the importance of addressing women’s health issues in the workplace.

The End of the Blog : Reproductive Health