Looking to fine-tune your company's approach to paternity leave? Start here with our adaptable Employer Paternity Leave policy template. Also known as a 'parental leave policy' – either way, this can be your foundation to build upon.
The dual pressure of home and office can be overwhelming for new parents. The solution? Promoting equal parental leaves.
Paternity leave is making waves! As new parents cheer for more bonding time, companies are catching on. They're embracing family-first values and rooting for gender-equal leave. Yet, while many are leading the charge generously, some still lag.
Hence, drafting a robust paternity leave policy can be the solution to support employees during this crucial time.
Paternity leave is a period that a father is allowed to take off from work following the birth or adoption of a child.
The purpose of this leave is to allow the father to bond with the new child, support the partner, and help with childcare and household responsibilities during this significant life event.
The specifics of paternity leave, such as its duration and whether it's paid or unpaid, vary by country, region, and individual employer policies. It's part of a broader category of family leave policies that also includes maternity leave and parental leave.
In India, paternity leave rules differ depending on whether you're employed in the public sector or the private sector:
For public sector employees:
1. Central Government Employees:
As per the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, male employees with less than two surviving children are entitled to 15 days of paternity leave within six months of the birth or adoption of a child. This leave can be taken before the birth or up to six months after.
2. State Government Employees:
Paternity leave rules for state government employees vary by state. Some states, like Tamil Nadu, offer paternity leave similar to the central government, while others might not have any specific provisions. You should check with your respective state government department for their specific policy.
For a private sector employee, here is what it says.
The mentioned 15-day leave is tailored for central government employees. A nationwide formal paternity leave policy is currently absent for private sector employees.
Despite the legislative void, many private companies take the initiative. They're designing and offering paternity leave benefits, albeit governed by their organizational policies.
The eligibility criteria are also set by looking if the employee works in the public or private sector.
Public sector employees:
As per the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, male employees with less than two surviving children are eligible for 15 days of paternity leave.
This leave can be taken before the birth or up to six months after. You must:
Each state has its own rules for paternity leave, so eligibility varies. Some states might offer similar rules to the central government, while others might not have any specific provisions.
Private sector employees:
Currently, there is no national law mandating paternity leave in the private sector in India. This means companies are not obligated to offer it.
Many private companies do offer paternity leave, but the eligibility, duration, and terms can vary significantly. Check with your employer's HR department to understand their specific policy and eligibility criteria. They might require:
Additional factors to consider:
Globally, parental leave policies have been advancing towards extended, gender-neutral leave periods, with countries like Sweden offering up to 480 days of paid shared parental leave, and many European nations providing at least 18 weeks of paternity leave. This trend reflects a commitment to family-first values and highlights the benefits of giving parents substantial time to bond with their children without the pressure of financial strain. While India is beginning to adopt paternity leave policies, there is still room to grow in line with these global standards. By aligning with international trends, Indian companies can attract top talent and foster a more supportive, family-friendly workplace culture.”
The paternity leave policy applies to all regular employees who are new parents and identifies as male.
1. Legal Compliance
👉Always keep abreast of India’s evolving labour laws and regulations.
👉Tailor your paternity leave policies accordingly to ensure they're compliant and serve the best interests of your employees.
2. Transparent Communication:
👉Educate your workforce about their paternity rights and benefits.
👉This not only involves issuing a comprehensive written policy document but also organizing informative sessions or workshops.
Address the following points -
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3. Simplified Application Process:
👉Facilitate an uncomplicated and efficient leave application process. The ease of applying will reassure employees of the company's genuine support.
👉Offer clear guidelines and assistance on the application prerequisites and documentation, if any.
While India’s paternity leave is mandated only for government employees, private employers can proactively offer similar or better benefits to stay competitive. When designing a paternity leave policy, it’s essential to regularly review local labor laws, including potential future mandates, and consult legal experts to ensure compliance. Many companies find success by aligning with Central Government standards (15 days), or, like some pioneers, offering more generous packages (up to 30 weeks). To provide clarity, create a clear, written policy that covers eligibility, duration, application processes, and any relevant restrictions. Establishing transparent, compliant policies fosters trust and ensures that employees feel supported.
1. Attraction of talent & retention:
👉According to a Deloitte survey, 57% of male respondents felt that taking paternity leave would be perceived as a lack of commitment to their jobs.
👉However, 83% of millennials said they would leave their current job for one with more family-friendly benefits.
2. Increase employee productivity & morale:
👉A study from Ernst & Young found that companies with generous paternity and maternity benefits had employees who were 5.5 times more likely to say they were able to manage work and personal life.
👉A healthy work-life balance ensures employee productivity.
3. Promoting gender equality:
👉According to McKinsey's research, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15% more likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians.
👉Paternity leave helps balance home responsibilities, leading to more women returning to work and rising in leadership roles.
4. Decrease employee turnover rate:
👉The Center for American Progress noted that businesses spend about one-fifth of an employee's salary to replace them.
👉Supporting new fathers can reduce turnover and cut down costs on hiring new talent.
5. Improved brand image:
👉A PwC study found that 72% of employees would like to work for a company that champions flexible working and paternity leave. This branding increases the number of potential new hires.
Paid paternity leave enhances in-office employee recognition and retention, fostering a more positive workplace environment. Make sure the policy is flexible and meets the needs of new fathers.
Disclaimer
This is a general guide, not a legal document, and may not cover all laws under the Indian Labour law. Neither the writer nor Pazcare will be liable for any legal consequences arising from its use. Consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance and adapt this guide to your business needs.
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