Chhattisgarh Employees to Receive Full Pay for Silent Retreats

In a progressive move aimed at enhancing mental well-being and administrative efficiency, the Government of Chhattisgarh has announced a new policy allowing its employees to take paid leave to attend Vipassana meditation retreats. 

The General Administration Department (GAD) issued the directive on April 7, 2026, marking a significant shift toward holistic employee welfare in the public sector.

Focus on Mental Health and Productivity

The policy applies to both All India Service and State Service officers. 

Under the new framework, eligible employees can avail themselves of up to 12 days of “Special Casual Leave” to participate in 10-day residential Vipassana courses at recognized centers. 

The state government emphasized that this initiative is designed to reduce workplace stress, improve focus, and strengthen moral values among the workforce. 

During this period, employees will be considered “on duty” and will receive their full salary.

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Key Guidelines for Chhattisgarh Employees and Eligibility

The government structured the benefit to support long-term mental health, allowing employees to utilize this special leave up to six times throughout their entire service career.

The 12-day window accounts for the standard 10-day meditation program plus two additional days for transit. 

The government clarified that participants must bear their own travel and stay expenses, even though it provides fully paid leave.

No additional financial allowances will be provided for these retreats.

Accountability and Approval Process

To prevent misuse, the policy includes strict documentation requirements. 

Applicants must submit an admission letter from a recognized Vipassana center alongside their leave request. 

Upon returning, they are required to furnish a completion certificate to their respective departments. 

If employees fail to provide this proof, the department will adjust the absence against their regular earned leave balance.

Departments will manage these requests based on administrative exigencies to ensure uninterrupted public service delivery.

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