In a significant clarification, the Central Government has confirmed that its employees can avail up to 60 days of leave annually for personal reasons, including taking care of elderly parents. The announcement was made by Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, in the Rajya Sabha, responding to a query by MP Sumitra Balmik.
Leave Entitlements As Per CCS Rules
As per the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, a central government employee is entitled to the following types of leave every year:
- 30 days of Earned Leave (EL)
- 20 days of Half Pay Leave (HPL)
- 8 days of Casual Leave (CL)
- 2 days of Restricted Holiday (RH)
These can be availed for any personal reasons, including medical care and elderly care, and they may be combined with other leaves or holidays based on approval and availability.
Leaves Are Accrued & Tracked
A Leave Account is maintained for every government employee, where leaves are credited in two installments—January 1 and July 1 every year. Most types of leave, including EL and HPL, are debited from this account upon use. However, special leave categories like maternity, paternity, child care, or adoption leave are not debited from the regular leave account.
Caring For Elderly Parents Recognized
The clarification underscores the government’s recognition of employees’ family responsibilities, especially concerning the growing needs of senior citizens. Many employees struggle to balance their professional obligations with caregiving roles, and this clarification helps provide clear guidance on their rights.
Other Leave Provisions
Apart from the 60 days mentioned, other types of leave include:
- Maternity Leave – Up to 180 days
- Paternity Leave – 15 days
- Child Adoption and Child Care Leave
- Medical and Study Leave – Under specific circumstances
This clarification reaffirms that government employees have the flexibility to manage personal and family needs within the structure of existing leave policies, promoting a more compassionate and balanced work environment.
