The Narendra Modi government has taken a landmark decision to grant six months of maternity leave to government female employees who become mothers through surrogacy. Traditionally, maternity leave was provided only to mothers who gave birth naturally, but now, surrogate mothers can also avail this benefit.
The Central Government has amended the 50-year-old Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, allowing mothers who become parents through surrogacy to take six months of leave for child care. Fathers, too, can avail 15 days of paternity leave, provided they do not have more than two children. This new rule came into effect from June 18, following the government's notification last week.
This move aligns with the growing number of surrogacy cases, ensuring that female employees benefit equally, regardless of how they become mothers. Previously, the absence of such a provision left surrogate mothers without the same rights as others.
Additionally, the government has clarified that female employees can take up to 730 days of child care leave during their entire service period for their children's needs, including education and health.
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