'We've got you covered: Assam government extends child care leave to single fathers

NEW DELHI: The Assam government on Sunday announced that single fathers working in state government departments will now be eligible for child care leave. Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared this decision through a post on X.

"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 government employees, we've got you covered," Himanta said in a post on X.



He further said, "From now on, we will grant Child Care Leave to single fathers to take care of their little ones."

Child Care Leave (CCL) allows employees to take time off to care for their children without losing salary or job security. Previously, in Assam, this leave was primarily granted to female government employees for reasons such as a child’s illness, exams, or other essential needs.

Under the new directive, male government employees who are single parents, including widowers, divorcees, or unmarried fathers, will also be eligible. The leave applies to children up to 18 years of age and can be used for biological, adopted, or legally dependent children, as per a report by the news agency IANS.

Eligible single fathers can now take CCL for up to two years (730 days).

The leave can be taken in multiple phases, but not more than three times in a calendar year.

Additionally, government employees with custody of "disabled" children will also be covered under the updated policy.