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First in India: Sikkim’s Sabbatical Leave Policy Explained | Key Facts for Competitive Exams

Sikkim has set a national benchmark by launching India’s first Sabbatical Leave Scheme for government staff. This progressive policy enables employees to pursue personal growth, higher education, or startups without losing job security. For competitive exam aspirants, understanding this scheme is crucial for general awareness and essay-writing sections.

What is the Sabbatical Leave Scheme?
Introduced in August 2023, Sikkim’s Sabbatical Leave policy is a paid career break designed to support employees in skill enhancement, entrepreneurship, or personal development. Key features include:

Eligibility:
Regular employees with 5+ years of continuous service.
Temporary staff after 6 months of service (expanded later).
Leave Duration:
365 days to 1,080 days (1-3 years).

Salary & Benefits:
50% of basic pay during leave.
Seniority and job continuity protected.
Government can recall employees with 1 month’s notice.

Approval Process:
Group C & D staff: Approved by Heads of Departments.
Group A & B employees: Requires Personnel Department Secretary’s approval.
This initiative has already helped hundreds of employees launch startups or upskill, making it a model for other states.

Why is This Important for Competitive Exams?
Current Affairs: A highly relevant topic for UPSC, PSC, SSC, and state exams.
Policy Understanding: Helps in essays and interviews on governance reforms.
Case Study: Demonstrates progressive labour policies in India.
Exam Questions: Likely to appear in GK and descriptive papers.

Questions & Answers for Exams
Q1. Which Indian state first introduced the Sabbatical Leave Scheme for government employees?
Ans: Sikkim (August 2023).
Q2. What is the minimum service requirement for regular employees to avail of Sabbatical Leave?
Ans: 5 years of continuous service.
Q3. How much salary do employees receive during Sabbatical Leave?
Ans: 50% of basic pay.
Q4. Can temporary employees avail of this scheme?
Ans: Yes, after 6 months of service.
Q5. Who approves Sabbatical Leave for Group C and D employees?
Ans: Heads of Departments (since April 2024).

Sikkim’s Sabbatical Leave Scheme is a landmark policy promoting work-life balance and innovation. For exam aspirants, grasping its eligibility, benefits, and significance can fetch valuable marks in GK and interview rounds. Stay updated with such reforms to ace competitive exams!