In a move aimed at encouraging skill development within the government workforce, the Himachal Pradesh government has decided to grant full salary to employees pursuing higher education while on approved study leave. The decision marks a significant shift from the existing provisions that allowed only a portion of the employee’s pay during such leave.
Under the revised rules, state government employees undertaking higher studies will receive 100 per cent of their salary throughout the duration of their study leave. Earlier, employees were entitled to just 40 per cent of their basic pay, along with applicable Dearness Allowance (DA) and House Rent Allowance (HRA), while pursuing academic programmes.
The state administration has amended Rule 56 of the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, to implement the change. The proposal had been outlined in the state’s Budget for the financial year 2026-27 and has now been formally approved.
The revised benefit will also extend retrospectively to employees who had availed study leave under the previous framework. Such employees will receive the differential amount between the earlier entitlement and the newly approved full salary benefit.
Officials believe that enabling employees to pursue advanced education without financial strain could strengthen the state’s administrative capabilities. Higher qualifications and specialised knowledge are expected to improve efficiency, enhance professional competence, and contribute to better public service delivery.
However, employees seeking to avail themselves of the benefit will need to submit an undertaking confirming that they are not receiving scholarships, stipends, or income from part-time employment during the study period.
The decision follows earlier measures by the state government to restore full salary benefits for government doctors pursuing specialised medical education, signalling a broader emphasis on employee welfare and professional development within the public sector.
