Sikkim Govt To Allow Sabbatical Leave For Temporary And Regular Employees

GANGTOK: The state government of Sikkim has announced significant changes to the procedures governing the granting of sabbatical leave for its employees. While ensuring minimal disruption to government services, the announcement was made through a circular dated April 7, 2025, aimed at providing extended leave opportunities.

Outlining eligibility, terms, and conditions, the sabbatical leave policy has been formalized through notifications issued on August 14, 2023, according to the circular. The circular clarifies the delegation of approval authority for sabbatical leave.

Under the newly implemented guidelines, Heads of Departments (HoDs) are now authorized to approve leave for employees in Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D,’ including all temporary staff within their respective departments. This directive is clearly stated in Notification No. 40, issued on April 7, 2025.

For employees falling under Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B,’ the authority to grant leave now rests with the Secretary of the Department of Personnel, as per Notification No. 41 of the same date.

After completing a minimum of six months of service, temporary employees become eligible for sabbatical leave. To maintain smooth functioning during such leave periods, the government has emphasized ensuring that enough staff remain available.

Eligibility for the temporary employees who have since been regularized will be governed by the earlier Notification No. 100/GEN/DOP dated June 2, 2022, along with related amendments.

ALSO READ: Sikkim Issues SOPs to Regulate AI-Generated E-Challans Amid Public Outcry

ALSO WATCH: