Patna: Bihar has changed the leave application process for teachers working in government schools, making the e-Shikshakosh portal or mobile application mandatory for submitting requests. Oral requests and paper-based applications will no longer be accepted under the new system.
The revised procedure sets deadlines for processing leave applications and aims to improve transparency, maintain digital records and strengthen accountability among education officials. Teachers are required to secure approval before taking leave, as unauthorised absence may lead to disciplinary action.
Teachers Must Apply for Leave Online
Under the new rules, teachers must submit leave applications through the e-Shikshakosh portal or mobile app. The system will maintain digital records of applications and their approval status.
Oral information or applications submitted on paper will not be sufficient. Teachers who take leave without the required approval may face action under the applicable service rules.
No Earned Leave for New Teachers for Three Years
The revised provisions also address earned leave (EL) for newly appointed teachers. Under the rules described in the new arrangement, newly appointed teachers will not be eligible for earned leave during their first three years of service.
The provisions also mention one month of unpaid leave after 11 months of work. Teachers may take leave for a maximum of two months at a time, subject to the conditions applicable to the relevant leave category and departmental instructions.
Same-Day Decisions on Casual and Special Leave
Applications for casual leave and special leave must be decided on the same day by the headmaster or the Block Education Officer (BEO).
Applications for maternity leave, childcare leave and medical leave will follow a separate process. These requests must be forwarded to the District Education Officer (DEO) within three working days.
Pending Applications to Be Forwarded to DEO
The new system also establishes deadlines for forwarding applications to higher authorities. If the concerned official fails to forward an application within the prescribed period, it will automatically be sent to the DEO.
The DEO must decide on the application within a maximum of seven working days. The provision is intended to reduce delays and make officials accountable for processing leave requests on time.
Unauthorised Absence Could Affect Salary
Rule 152 of the Bihar Service Code states that leave is not a matter of right. Teachers must therefore follow the prescribed procedure and obtain approval before remaining absent from duty.
Unauthorised absence may result in salary being withheld and could lead to service-related consequences, including a break in service, depending on the applicable rules and circumstances.
Teachers should check the status of their applications and ensure that leave has been approved before taking time off.
Education Minister Explains the Changes
Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari said the revised process was designed to make leave management simpler and more transparent. Mandatory online applications will create a digital record of requests and decisions while making officials more accountable.
He also said action would be taken against officials who fail to comply with the prescribed timelines. The government aims to ensure the timely disposal of leave applications and improve attendance management in government schools.
