New Delhi: Central government employees are eligible to avail up to 30 days of leave annually for personal reasons, including the care of their elderly parents. This clarification was provided by Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in the Rajya Sabha.
Responding to a question, Dr. Singh stated that the existing Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, already make provisions for such leave. He emphasized that these rules entitle central government employees to 30 days of earned leave each year, which can be utilized for various personal reasons, including attending to the needs of their aged parents.
Beyond the 30 days of earned leave, central government employees are also eligible for other types of leave under the 1972 rules, such as 20 days of half-pay leave, 8 days of casual leave, and 2 days of restricted holidays annually. These leave provisions collectively offer flexibility to employees to manage their personal and family responsibilities.
Dr. Singh’s statement aims to reaffirm the government’s commitment to supporting its workforce in balancing professional duties with personal obligations, particularly in light of the growing need for elder care in Indian society. While there is no separate category of leave specifically termed ‘elder care leave,’ the existing framework allows employees to use their accrued leave for this crucial purpose.
