Himachal Pradesh government introduces special maternity leave for female government employees

Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has implemented a 60-day special maternity leave for women who suffer a stillbirth or the loss of a child shortly after birth in a historic move to support female government workers.

According to a state government statement, female workers who have less than two surviving children are presently eligible for 180 days of maternity leave from the date of hire. The recently announced special maternity leave will only be applicable in situations of stillbirth or neonatal loss, although it will still be accessible under the same qualifying requirements. Only deliveries at approved hospitals are eligible for this leave.

Given the psychological and physical toll that such terrible events may have, the state government’s program seeks to provide impacted workers the time they need to recuperate. By guaranteeing job stability and encouraging a positive work-life balance for its female employees, this action demonstrates the government’s dedication to employee welfare.

By putting this policy into effect, the Himachal Pradesh government confirms its commitment to progressive governance, putting its workers’ welfare first and providing vital assistance during trying times.

According to an official statement from the chief minister’s office, the state government had earlier made a major move to fortify the healthcare industry by “granting full salary” to MBBS physicians who were doing postgraduate courses or specialized training in India or overseas.