In 2026, the 7th Pay Commission simplified the leave regulations for the Central Government employees. These regulations aim to provide the employees with sufficient rest, family time, and flexibility but still guarantee the efficiency of the government offices. A five-day work schedule allows the employees to have weekends, national holidays, and plus leave benefits.
Holidays and Offs
The Central Government offices work five days a week, which leads to 104 holidays in a year just because of weekends. Moreover, besides these holidays, employees also count on 3 National Holidays, 14 Gazetted Holidays, and 2 Restricted Holidays.
Leave Types
The 7th Pay Commission entitles the employees to different kinds of leaves. Among these are casual leave, earned leave, half-pay leave, and medical leave. Moreover, child care leave is specifically provided for women employees.
Casual Leave and Earned Leave
Casual Leave (CL) is meant for very short breaks for personal matters. Every employee has the right to take 8 days of CL in a year. The ceiling for Earned Leave (EL) is much higher — 30 days are given per year and are subject to piling up and rolling over.
Half Pay Leave and Medical Leave
As for Half Pay Leave, employees are granted an annual quota of 20 days, that is inclusive of medical leave if the need arises. The provision is such that an employee is not financially burdened during health issues.
Child Care Leave
One of the most crucial provisions is the Child Care Leave (CCL). Women employees can take a maximum of 730 days in the course of their service at the company for taking care of the child. This law eases the pressure on working mothers as it permits them to take care of their professional and family claims at the same time.
Leave Travel Allowance (LTA)
One of the benefits offered by the 7th Pay Commission is the Leave Travel Allowance, which permits employees to travel with their families during their leaves. It is an advantage that not only promotes the recreation of the family but also their bonding and at the same time relieves the employees financially.
Summary Table of Leave Rules 2026
| Leave Type | Annual Entitlement | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Casual Leave (CL) | 8 days | For short personal needs |
| Earned Leave (EL) | 30 days | Can be carried forward |
| Half Pay Leave | 20 days | Convertible to medical leave |
| Medical Leave | As required | Derived from Half Pay Leave |
| Child Care Leave | 730 days (lifetime) | For women employees, child-related use |
| Holidays | 104 weekends + 19 | Includes national, gazetted, restricted |
Conclusion
The 7th Pay Commission Leave Rules 2026 guarantee a structured and fair leave system for the government employees. Casual breaks, medical needs, and family care provisions are among the causes promoting employee health and productivity, the latter being one of the reasons for the existence of these rules. The rules for leave not only support employees’ rights but also enhance the government’s service efficiency by being a tool to balance the governments’ and employees’ work life.