Diary Times News Service
Shimla, 09 August:Â In a significant policy change, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced new rules for employees and officials availing study leave, reducing the pay provision from 100% to just 40%. The change introduced by the Himachal Pradesh government is part of an effort to address the administrative challenges and financial stress caused by a large number of employees availing extended study leave.
The revised rules have been formalized through amendments to the Central Civil Services Leave Rules, 1972, and are now incorporated in the newly framed Central Civil Services Leave Himachal Pradesh Rules, 2024. These changes will fundamentally change the process and benefits associated with study leave for government employees in the state.
Under the previous rules, which were in force since 1986, the administrative department had the authority to grant study leave for up to 24 months with full pay. The process will now be overseen by the Finance Department, which will decide on the approval of study leave requests. The change in authority is aimed at ensuring a more rigorous review process and better management of the workforce.
The government cited the negative impact on departmental operations and the financial burden on the state exchequer as the main reasons for this policy change. The provision of full pay during study leave was increasingly being deemed unsustainable, as the number of employees opting for such leave was increasing, causing disruptions in the functioning of various government departments.
As per the new rules, employees taking study leave within the country or abroad will now receive only 40% of their salary. In addition, they will be entitled to dearness allowance and house rent allowance. However, payment of this reduced salary will depend on the employee providing a certificate confirming that they are not receiving any scholarship, stipend or part-time employment remuneration related to their studies.
The Sukhu government’s decision is being seen as a measure to prevent excessive use of study leave and ensure that the essential functions of government departments are not compromised due to shortage of staff. By reducing the financial incentives associated with study leave, the government wants to encourage employees to be more selective and thoughtful in their decisions to pursue further education or training.
The new rules are expected to prompt government employees to seek alternative means of funding their studies and reconsider the duration and necessity of their study leave. While the policy aims to strike a balance between professional development and the operational needs of the state, it may also reduce the number of employees seeking extended study leave.
As the new rules come into effect, the government remains committed to efficiently managing its workforce while protecting public money and maintaining the smooth operation of its departments.
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