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Rule 18 - Leave Limit | KartavyaDesk

FR/SR

Original Rule Text

F.R. 18. Unless the President, in view of the exceptional circumstances of the case otherwise determines, no Government servant shall be granted leave of any kind for a continuous period exceeding five years.

What This Means

Fundamental Rule 18 (FR 18) essentially puts a limit on how long a government employee can stay on leave. Generally, you can't take any kind of leave, whether it's earned leave, medical leave, or any other type, for more than five years continuously. This rule is in place to ensure that government positions aren't left vacant indefinitely and that public services continue to be delivered effectively. It applies to all government servants unless the President makes a specific exception due to extraordinary circumstances. This means that if you're planning an extended break from your job, you need to be aware of this five-year limit.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Key Points

  • •Maximum continuous leave period is five years.
  • •Applies to all types of leave (earned, medical, etc.).
  • •Applies to all government servants.
  • •President can make exceptions in exceptional circumstances.
  • •Ensures continuity of government services.

Practical Example

Ms. Priya Sharma, a Section Officer in the Ministry of Finance, took medical leave for two years due to a serious illness. After recovering, she requested an extension of her leave for three more years to care for her elderly parents. While her request was initially supported by her department, the administration reminded her that FR 18 limits continuous leave to five years. Ms. Sharma was advised that exceeding this limit could jeopardize her position unless the President, considering the exceptional circumstances of her case (caring for elderly parents with no other support), grants a special exemption. She ultimately returned to work after four years and six months, utilizing available leave options and making arrangements for her parents' care that allowed her to resume her duties.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I exceed the 5-year leave limit?▼
Exceeding the 5-year leave limit can lead to termination of your service unless the President grants an exception based on exceptional circumstances.
Does this rule apply to study leave?▼
Yes, FR 18 applies to all types of leave, including study leave. The total continuous period of leave, including study leave, cannot exceed five years unless an exception is granted.
What constitutes 'exceptional circumstances' for a Presidential exception?▼
The definition of 'exceptional circumstances' is not explicitly defined and is determined on a case-by-case basis by the President. It typically involves situations of extreme hardship or compelling humanitarian reasons.
If I rejoin after 4 years of leave, can I take another long leave immediately?▼
While technically possible, taking another long leave immediately after rejoining might raise concerns and could be subject to scrutiny, especially if it appears to circumvent the spirit of FR 18. Each leave request is evaluated on its own merits.
Does this rule apply to employees of state governments?▼
FR 18 is a central government rule. State government employees are governed by their respective state government rules, which may or may not have a similar provision.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1 of 3

What is the maximum continuous period for which a government servant can be granted leave of any kind, according to Fundamental Rule 18?

Related Rules

Rule 36Fundamental Rules & Supplementary Rules - Rule 36 - Chapter IIRule 10Fundamental Rules & Supplementary Rules - Rule 10 - Chapter IIRule 1Fundamental Rules & Supplementary Rules - Rule 1Rule 114Fundamental Rules & Supplementary Rules - Rule 114 - Chapter VIIRule 113Fundamental Rules & Supplementary Rules - Rule 113 - Chapter VII

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