Odisha govt introduces additional 10 days of casual leave for women government employees

Odisha's Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik-led government unveiled a new policy on Tuesday, granting women employees across various government departments an additional 10 days of annual casual leave, supplementing the existing 15-day entitlement. 

The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) underscored that the decision aims to address the domestic responsibilities and other challenges encountered by women government workers. Notably, Odisha holds the distinction of being the pioneer state to implement 33 percent reservation in government jobs back in the 90s.

This latest initiative follows a series of measures aimed at supporting women's welfare in the state. Recently, the government announced a 180-day paid maternity leave for women block grant employees, underscoring its commitment to gender equality in the workforce. 

Moreover, last month witnessed the state government doubling the maternity benefit under the Mamata scheme, specifically designed to aid pregnant women and lactating mothers, from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000. Launched in 2011, Mamata has significantly contributed to reducing maternal and child mortality, benefiting over 60 lakh pregnant women and mothers.

In a concerted effort to empower women at grassroots levels, the government raised the per diem allowance for women officials participating in block and panchayat-level meetings to ₹500. This move comes on the heels of financial aid initiatives, including ₹1,000 for uniforms and blazers for the state's 7 million Self-Help Group (SHG) members. Moreover, the State Cabinet approved ₹2,000 each for 150,000 SHG members in leadership roles, further enhancing their financial empowerment.

Furthermore, the Mission Shakti Scooter Yojana, introduced last year, aims to provide interest-free loans up to ₹1 lakh to 200,000 women for purchasing scooters. With a substantial allocation of ₹528 crore to subsidize scooter loans, the government aims to facilitate greater mobility and economic independence for women.

In a bid to ensure equitable access to healthcare, the government had previously announced enhanced benefits under the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana for women. While male members in eligible families could avail treatment in empanelled private hospitals up to ₹5 lakh, women's entitlement was doubled to ₹10 lakh.

The government's consistent efforts to roll out welfare measures, particularly targeting women, come amidst the approaching assembly and Lok Sabha elections next month. The focus on women's welfare reflects a broader strategy aimed at enhancing inclusivity and fostering greater participation in the democratic process. Notably, the surge in women's voter turnout in Odisha, from 54% in 2000 to 74% in 2019, underscores the impact of such initiatives in empowering women and amplifying their voices in governance.