OverviewKarnataka is preparing to introduce what is expected to be India's first dedicated Women's Health Policy, with the initial phase focusing on menopause and perimenopause. Announcing the initiative, State Health Minister UT Khader said that while India has general health policies, no state or the Centre has a separate policy specifically addressing women's health. He noted that women's health issues have traditionally received less attention within broader healthcare programmes and said the new policy aims to bridge this gap. The Karnataka government plans to strengthen awareness and healthcare support through the Ruthuthaare initiative, recognising menopause as an important but often neglected health issue. The initiative aims to encourage timely recognition of menopausal symptoms, improve access to healthcare and promote informed discussions about women's health, laying the foundation for a more comprehensive policy in the future.