The central government has implemented significant changes to the All India Services (Leave) Rules, 1955, allowing single male officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFoS) to be eligible for paid childcare leave. Previously, this leave benefit was exclusively applicable to female officers. This new rule came into effect from July 29, 2023.
The new rule defines “single male” as an unmarried, widower, or divorcee male member of the service. The amended rules now prescribe granting childcare leave to female and single male officers who have minor children below the age of eighteen. This leave can be availed for a maximum of 730 days during their entire service tenure, and it allows them to take care of up to two children.
As per the recent amendment, during the period of childcare leave, members of the service will receive 100 per cent of their leave salary, equivalent to the pay drawn immediately before proceeding on leave, for the first year. For the subsequent 365 days of leave, they will be paid 80 per cent of the salary drawn before proceeding on leave. This amendment ensures a graduated payout for childcare leave, providing financial support to officers while they focus on caring for their children.
In addition to the inclusion of single male officers, several changes have been made to the leave conditions. Childcare leave may now be availed in more than one spell, and it will not be debited against the leave account of the service member. The minimum duration for availing childcare leave has been set at five days in a spell. Furthermore, a separate leave account will be maintained specifically for childcare leave and will not be debited against other leave accounts.
A new sub-rule has been added, specifying that childcare leave will not be granted during the probation period, except in extreme situations. The government aims to ensure that childcare leave is used judiciously, with consideration given to the operational needs of the service.
The amendments reflect a progressive approach by the government to promote gender equality in the workplace and recognize the changing roles of fathers in parenting. These changes are expected to provide support to single male officers in balancing their professional and family responsibilities.
