The government of Kerala announced that it will be providing relaxation in working hours for its employees who are parents of children suffering from various disabilities, including cerebral palsy, multiple disabilities, mental retardation and autism. This new measure aims to support parents who have to care for their children with disabilities, while also maintaining their jobs.
According to the government statement, an employee who is the parent of a child with a disability of 40 per cent or more can avail the relaxation in working hours. A maximum of 16 hours of total working hours in a month will be allowed to one of such employees in addition to the concessions currently granted to government staff. It means that the affected employees will have more flexibility in managing their work and personal lives.
The decision was taken during a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The Kerala government has been known for taking progressive measures to support its citizens, and this latest initiative is yet another example of its commitment to inclusive growth. By providing this support to its employees with differently-abled children, the government hopes to ease the burden on families and promote a more equitable and compassionate society.