Maximum period
Under the amended CCS (Leave) Rules framework, eligible employees may be granted Child Care Leave for up to 730 days during the entire service for taking care of up to two eldest surviving children, subject to the prescribed conditions.
Who can receive CCL
CCL extends to female Government servants and to single male parents. DoPT clarifies that the single-male category includes unmarried, widower and divorcee employees.
Leave salary
The first 365 days are paid at 100% of leave salary and the next 365 days at 80% of leave salary under the post-7th CPC amendment.
Number of spells
Normally CCL can be granted in up to three spells in a calendar year. Single female Government servants may be granted up to six spells. DoPT issued a further 2024 liberalisation allowing three additional spells beyond the existing limit when the child is admitted as an inpatient in a hospital.
Child's age and purpose
CCL is intended for child care needs such as rearing, education and sickness, subject to the age and other conditions prescribed in the CCS (Leave) Rules.
Not an automatic right
CCL requires sanction by the competent authority. Operational requirements and the applicable leave rules still govern approval.
Probation
CCL is ordinarily not granted during probation except in specified exceptional situations where the competent authority is satisfied about the need and keeps the period minimal.
Keep records
Maintain the sanction order and CCL account separately from other leave balances. Where the extra hospitalisation-related spells are used, preserve hospital admission evidence.
Related guides
LTC & Leave Hub · Earned Leave · HPL & Commuted Leave · Leave Encashment · LTC Advance & Claim
Official sources
- DoPT – Amendment/clarification to CCS Leave Rules after 7th CPC
- DoPT Annual Report 2024–25 – further CCL liberalisation
Source review: 10 September 2026.