PANAJI
In a major relief to ailing educators, the State government has approved a Special Medical Leave policy granting up to 365 days of fully paid leave to regular teachers diagnosed with terminal illnesses. The policy will apply to teachers working in government and government-aided schools across the State.
As per the order issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE) Shailesh Zingade, terminal illnesses under the policy include late-stage cancer, end-stage organ failure involving the kidney, liver or heart, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and progressive neurodegenerative disorders, as certified by a recognised government medical authority.
Eligible teachers will be entitled to up to one year of fully paid medical leave. “Any extension beyond 365 days will be considered only on the recommendation of a Medical Board and subject to approval by the State government,” Zingade said.
The policy will be governed by the provisions of the Goa, Daman and Diu School Education Act, 1984, and Rules of 1986, read with the CCS (Leave) Rules, 1972.
“To avail the leave, teachers must submit an application through the Head of Institution along with a medical certificate issued by Goa Medical College, Bambolim, or other supporting documents. The Head of Institution will forward the application to the DoE for verification and approval. In cases where further evaluation is required, the matter may be referred to a Government Medical Board,” Zingade said.
Importantly, the order clarifies that during the period of special medical leave, teachers’ service benefits, seniority, continuity of service and pensionary benefits will remain unaffected.
Heads of government and government-aided schools have been directed to ensure strict, timely and non-discriminatory implementation of the policy without avoidable delays. “The order comes into force with immediate effect and will remain a permanent policy, subject to periodic review by the government,” he said.
