Employees entitled to 42-day special casual leave for organ donation, says central govt

The central government has introduced a provision allowing its employees to avail a maximum of 42 days of special casual leave for organ donation. This information was shared in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday by the Union Minister of State for Personnel, Jitendra Singh, in a written response to a parliamentary query.

Per the guidelines issued by the Government of India, any central government employee who donates an organ is eligible for up to 42 days of special casual leave. This provision applies irrespective of the type of surgical procedure required for organ removal. The exact duration of leave granted to the donor will be determined based on the recommendation of a government-registered medical practitioner or doctor. The policy was formally introduced through an official order by the Personnel Ministry in 2023.

According to the provisions outlined in the order, the special casual leave should ideally be taken in a single stretch, beginning from the day the donor is admitted to the hospital for the organ donation procedure. However, in some instances, if required, employees may start availing the leave up to one week before the scheduled surgery. This early leave can only be granted if recommended by a registered government doctor or medical practitioner.

The move aims to provide necessary support to employees who choose to donate their organs, ensuring that they have ample recovery time without any financial or professional stress. By introducing this provision, the government seeks to encourage organ donation and acknowledge the noble act of employees willing to help save lives through their contributions.

This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote organ donation across the country, addressing the critical shortage of organs required for transplantation. By offering up to 42 days of leave, the government ensures that donors receive adequate medical care and post-operative recovery time, thereby safeguarding their health while also recognizing their altruistic gesture.

The special casual leave policy is a significant step in facilitating organ donation among central government employees and is expected to contribute to the overall organ donation ecosystem in India.