KSRTC Launches 180-Day Childcare Leave For Single Male Employees—But There's A Catch; Check Here

The KSRTC policy also includes a provision stating that if an employee marries during the childcare leave period, the leave will be cancelled

In a similar move, the Haryana government has approved amendments that enable employees to take up to two years (730 days) of childcare leave

Source : Pexels

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has rolled out a new policy offering 180 days of childcare leave to single male employees, including those who are unmarried, divorced, or widowers. This move is in line with wider government initiatives to extend childcare leave benefits to single male workers.

The KSRTC policy also includes a provision stating that if an employee marries during the childcare leave period, the leave will be cancelled. This condition has sparked debates about its potential impact on employees' personal choices during the leave.

This move is part of a wider trend across India to offer childcare benefits to single male employees, recognising their role in child-rearing. For example, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has introduced a policy that allows single male employees to take up to two years of childcare leave, with full pay for the first year and 80 per cent pay for the second year.

In a similar move, the Haryana government has approved amendments that enable employees to take up to two years (730 days) of childcare leave.

The introduction of the policy generated a flurry of reactions on the social media platform X. One user described the move as "Way ahead of its time," expressing admiration for the progressive nature of the policy. Another user remarked, "A positive step towards equality in the workplace," highlighting the significance of extending such benefits to single male employees. 

"For a while I thought and was happy that this was for everyone. Anyways, good job and good initiative by @KSRTC_Journeys. This is truly a great decision in terms of the benefits for employees!" a third user remarked. 

The policy has captured the attention of many, with diverse opinions emerging regarding its potential impact on work-life balance and gender equality.