Himachal introduces 60-day special maternity leave for women facing child loss
PTC Web Desk: In a significant policy move, the Himachal Pradesh Government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has announced a 60-day special maternity leave for women government employees who experience a stillbirth or neonatal loss.
According to an official statement, the state currently provides 180 days of maternity leave to women government employees with fewer than two surviving children. The newly introduced special maternity leave will follow the same eligibility criteria but will specifically apply in cases of stillbirth or the loss of a newborn soon after birth. Additionally, this leave can only be availed if the delivery occurs in an authorised hospital.
Recognising the emotional and physical impact of such loss, the initiative aims to offer affected employees crucial recovery time, reinforcing the government's commitment to employee welfare, mental well-being, and job security. This progressive step aligns with efforts to create a supportive work environment for women.
In another key initiative, the Himachal Pradesh Government recently decided to provide full salary to MBBS doctors pursuing postgraduate education or specialised training in India or abroad, strengthening the state’s healthcare sector.
- PTC NEWS