Assam Government Grants 2 year paid Childcare Leave to Single Fathers
Guwahati: In a progressive move, the Assam government has extended Child Care Leave (CCL) to single fathers employed in state government departments. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the decision on Sunday, emphasizing the need to support male employees who are the sole caregivers for their children.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), CM Sarma wrote,
“Sometimes life may take unexpected turns, and a man may have to be the sole caregiver for a child. If such a scenario ever arises for our State Govt employees, we’ve got you covered. From now on, we will grant Child Care Leave to single fathers to take care of their little ones.”
Expanded Child Care Leave Policy
Previously, CCL was available only to female government employees to help them care for their children during important periods such as illness or exams. However, under the new directive, single fathers—including widowers, divorcees, and unmarried fathers—can now avail of this leave.
Key Features of the Revised Policy:
✅ Eligibility – The applicant must be a state government employee and a single parent (widower, divorcee, or unmarried father).
✅ Age Limit – The leave is applicable for children up to 18 years of age (including biological, adopted, or legally dependent children).
✅ Duration – Employees can take up to 730 days (two years) of CCL during their entire service period.
✅ Salary Rules – The first 365 days are granted with full salary, while the remaining 365 days come with 80% pay.
✅ Usage Rules – The leave must be taken for at least 15 days at a time and cannot be availed more than three times a year.
✅ For Disabled Children – Employees with custody of disabled children are also covered under this policy.
A senior government official clarified that prior approval from the competent authority is mandatory to ensure that government services remain uninterrupted. This policy highlights Assam’s commitment to gender-equal workplace benefits and acknowledges the challenges faced by single fathers in balancing work and childcare.
