In a trailblazing reform that marks Sikkim as the first state in the country to introduce a formal Sabbatical Leave scheme, the government has empowered its workforce, especially the youth, with a rare opportunity for personal and professional growth. Official sources said that, introduced in August 2023, the policy allows regular state government employees who have completed at least five years of continuous service to avail of leave from 365 days up to a maximum of 1,080 days while receiving 50% of their basic pay during their absence. Importantly, the scheme preserves their seniority, ensuring continuity in service, and the government retains the right to recall the employee with one month’s notice. Hundreds of youths fulfilled their dreams through this scheme. Many of them started a startup initiative.

Recognising the value of extended leave for temporary staff, the policy was expanded to include them as well. Temporary employees become eligible after six months of continuous service, with the same structural provisions in place. These amendments have increased flexibility within the administrative framework and enabled broader access to the scheme.

Further enhancing the scheme’s effectiveness, in April this year, the government delegated approval authority. Heads of Departments can now grant Sabbatical Leave to Group C and D employees including temporary staff,  while Group A and B employees must seek approval from the Secretary of the Personnel Department. This decentralisation streamlines processes and accelerates decision-making.