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PS Golay: The Champion of Social Justice Pioneering Family-Friendly Policies for Sunaulo Sikkim

Dr PRATIK SHARMA

Child care leave is not just a policy; it is recognition of the essential role that parents play in setting the foundation for our future generation heading towards Sunaulo Sikkim

In a commendable move that underscores its commitment to women’s rights and family welfare, SKM Government under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister PS Golay has introduced significant enhancements to child care leave provisions, particularly benefiting female employees. The recent decision to allow 180 days of child care leave for female staff, along with the option to take two months of maternity leave before delivery, marks a pivotal step towards fostering a supportive work environment for working mothers.

Acknowledging the Challenge of Balancing Work and Family:

In today’s fast-paced world, balancing a career and family responsibilities can be especially challenging for women. The pressures of both professional obligations and the demands of motherhood can often lead to stress and burnout. Recognizing these challenges,the PS Golay Government has taken a decisive step to alleviate some of this burden by providing generous leave provisions.

A Boost to Employee Morale and Retention:

The introduction of 180 days of child care leave is a monumental leap forward. It provides new mothers with the necessary time to recover from childbirth and bond with their newborns, which is essential for both physical and emotional well-being. By extending such a generous leave policy, the government acknowledges the critical role that early parent-child bonding plays in healthy child development.

Also, this initiative is likely to enhance employee morale and loyalty. Women who feel supported by their employers in balancing family and work are more likely to be content and productive in their roles. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher turnover rates, and a more engaged workforce.

Flexibility through Pre-Delivery Maternity Leave:

The supplementary flexibility of allowing two months of maternity leave before delivery is another remarkable feature of this policy. This option empowers expectant mothers to plan their workload in a way that suits their health needs and personal circumstances. It provides them with the opportunity to adjust to the physical and emotional changes that come with pregnancy, ensuring that they are better prepared for the demands of motherhood when the baby arrives. 

Societal Impact and Role Modeling:

By implementing these progressive child care leave policy, the PS Golay Government sets a powerful example for workplaces across the nation. This initiative sends a strong message about the importance of supporting families in a way that encourages gender equality and fair treatment in the workplace. It encourages other organizations, both public and private, to reassess their leave policies and consider similar measures that support their employees’ family responsibilities.

Interpretation of child care leave and the recent India Today Ratings:

The provisions of 180 days of child care leave till the child attains 18 years of age and the option for two months of maternity leave before delivery introduced by the PS Golay Government are commendable steps toward building a more inclusive and family-friendly workplace. These policies not only empower women but also contribute to the overall well-being of families and society at large. As we witness these changes, it is vital to continue advocating for such progressive measures that nurture a balanced and supportive environment for all employees.   

The government’s initiative is indeed a blueprint forSunaulo Sikkim that even other states and nation can follow. This is a transformative approach that acknowledges the crucial intersection of work and family life. Such policies reflect a vision of progress, encouraging a brighter future for working mothers and their families.

Sikkim Chief Minister P.S. Golay’s rise as the popular Chief Minister in home state recently portrayedby India Todayis justified through his dedicated efforts to implement people-friendly policies that prioritize the welfare of the citizens. His leadership reflects a balanced approach to development—one that respects Sikkim’s unique cultural heritage while addressing contemporary challenges. As the state continues to progress under his guidance, the positive impact of his policies is clear, earning him the admiration and support of the people of Sikkim and positioning him as a role model for effective governance in India at national level also.

(Views are personal.

Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi