Patna: Bihar’s government has announced a major reform for female school teachers, approving 730 days of Child Care Leave (CCL) and ensuring monthly salary payments during maternity leave. Education Minister Sunil Kumar confirmed in the Legislative Council on Friday that the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the extended leave has been finalised and the formal order will be issued within 15 days. The announcement followed impromptu questions from Prof. Sanjay Kumar Singh and Dr. Naval Kishore Yadav.
The new policy replaces the previous system, under which teachers returning from maternity leave received a one-time salary. With the reform, teachers will receive salary payments every month during their leave, reducing financial uncertainty. The government had already issued separate SOPs addressing salary disbursement three months ago, providing clear guidelines on leave management and employee benefits.
Opposition leader Rabri Devi raised concerns about the transfer of female teachers to distant districts, suggesting that teachers be posted in their home districts to maintain family and social balance. Sunil Kumar welcomed the proposal, stating that the department would review the suggestion carefully.
The minister also addressed irregularities in school bench-desk procurement. Officials failing to submit AC-DC bills are being identified, and legal action, including FIRs, will be taken against defaulters. From now on, bench-desk supplies will bypass District Education Officers (DEOs) to improve transparency and accountability in procurement. Weekly audits will continue to monitor compliance and prevent financial discrepancies.
