Nehlia Developers Becomes First Indian Real Estate Firm to Offer Paid Menstrual Leave
New Delhi, September 15, 2026: Nehlia Developers has introduced a dedicated paid menstrual leave policy for its eligible female employees, effective September 2026, marking a first for India’s real estate sector, the company said in a press release.
Under the new policy, eligible staff will receive one paid menstrual leave per month. This benefit stands separate from existing sick, casual, and annual leave entitlements, subject to the company’s internal human resources policies and employment terms. The initiative aims to address menstrual health directly, allowing female employees to manage their health needs without compromising their professional responsibilities.
Ashok Nehlia, Founder & CEO, Nehlia Developers, said, “At Nehlia Developers, we believe that taking care of our people is not an HR formality; it is a leadership responsibility. The introduction of menstrual leave is a small but meaningful step towards building a workplace where women can work, grow, lead, and succeed without feeling the need to hide a natural part of their lives. We are not giving women a privilege; we are acknowledging a reality.”
Designed with an emphasis on trust, dignity, and privacy, the policy exempts employees from submitting medical documentation for routine leave requests. All applications will be processed confidentially through standard human resources channels. Additionally, where operational roles permit, the company plans to offer adjusted work arrangements, including work-from-home options, to support staff during their menstrual cycles.
Om Prakash Nehlia, Managing Director, Nehlia Developers, said, “A workplace becomes truly supportive when its policies reflect the realities of the people who are part of it. Menstrual leave is about creating that space with understanding, dignity, and trust. As more women take on important roles across the real estate sector, it is equally important that organizations create an environment where they feel supported not just professionally, but as individuals.”
Nehlia Developers maintains a workforce of 100 employees, approximately 70 of whom are women across marketing, sales, human resources, operations, administration, communications, and leadership roles. The policy introduction reflects broader shifts within the traditionally male-dominated real estate industry, where female professionals are increasingly occupying strategic roles.
Moving forward, the company intends to conduct workplace sensitization sessions to promote awareness around menstrual health, alongside developing future initiatives focused on gender inclusion, flexible working models, and career advancement.
