The Odisha government unveiled additional benefits for women employees within its various government departments, announcing an extension of 10 days to their annual casual leave entitlement. This move, disclosed by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), elevates the current allotment from 15 to 25 casual leave days per annum for women government personnel.
This decision stems from the acknowledgment of the domestic commitments and challenges encountered by women working in governmental roles. Notably, Odisha pioneered the implementation of 33 percent reservation for women in government positions during the 1990s, highlighting its commitment to gender inclusivity in the workforce.
In a recent development, the state administration also sanctioned 15 days of casual leave annually for staff in various non-government-aided educational institutions. Additionally, women block grant employees have been granted a paid maternity leave period of 180 days for up to two live births.
Government sources estimate that approximately 33,420 employees, comprising both teaching and non-teaching staff, across 2,560 newly aided high schools, 940 upper primary schools, and 138 madrasas state-wide, will benefit from these measures.