What is Paternity Leave?
Paternity leave is a special leave granted to male government employees (including probationers) to provide support during childbirth or adoption.
Paternity Leave Rules (Government Employees)
Paternity Leave for Biological Childbirth
Eligibility:
- A male government employee with less than two surviving children.
- Available for 15 days, anytime from 15 days before childbirth to 6 months after delivery.
Salary & Benefits:
- Full leave salary equal to the last drawn pay.
- Can be combined with other leave types.
- Not deducted from leave balance.
- Cannot be refused under any circumstances.
- If not availed within the allowed period, it lapses.
Paternity Leave for Child Adoption
Eligibility:
- A male government employee (including probationers) with less than two surviving children.
- Granted 15 days leave upon the adoption of a child below one year old.
- Must be availed within 6 months from the date of adoption.
Salary & Benefits:
- Full leave salary as per the last drawn pay.
- Can be combined with other leave types.
- Not deducted from leave balance.
- Cannot be refused under any circumstances.
- If not used within the allowed period, it lapses.
Conclusion
Paternity leave ensures work-life balance and promotes equal parenting responsibilities for male government employees. These 15 days of paid leave provide essential time to support families during childbirth or adoption.
Government employees should take advantage of this policy to prioritize family care while securing financial stability.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for paternity leave?
Any male government employee (including probationers) with less than two surviving children is eligible for paternity leave.
2. How long is paternity leave in India?
The duration of paternity leave is 15 days. It can be availed up to 15 days before childbirth or within 6 months after delivery.
3. Is paternity leave paid?
Yes, paternity leave is fully paid. The employee receives leave salary equal to the last drawn pay.
4. Can paternity leave be combined with other types of leave?
Yes, paternity leave can be combined with any other kind of leave, such as casual leave, earned leave, or medical leave.
5. Can paternity leave be denied by the employer?
No, paternity leave cannot be refused under any circumstances. It is a right provided to eligible employees.
6. What happens if paternity leave is not taken within the allowed period?
If paternity leave is not availed within the specified period (i.e., within six months from childbirth or adoption), it will lapse and cannot be carried forward.
7. Is paternity leave deducted from the leave account?
No, paternity leave is not debited from the employee’s leave balance.
8. Is there paternity leave for child adoption?
Yes, a male government employee adopting a child below one year old is entitled to 15 days of paid paternity leave, which must be availed within six months of adoption.
9. Where can I find the official government policy on paternity leave?
The official paternity leave policy can be found in government service rules and on the official Dopt website.
Related Posts:
- Maternity Leave Rules for Government Employees in India,
- Child Care Leave Rules for Government Employees in India
- Paternity Leave Policy in India