Microsoft rehashes leave policy keeping fathers in mind
What's the story
Microsoft India, in a welcoming change, has extended the time period of their paternity leave allocated to the male employees and has also introduced a family caregiver policy. It is indeed heart-warming, when an industry behemoth admits that since it takes two to tango, it would be better if both parents get quality time with their new-born child. Here's what the changes are.
Paternity leave
A drive towards equality
Fathers do have their heartstrings tugged when they leave the newest member of the family only after spending a briefly allocated holiday by firms. Microsoft India has, therefore, decided that henceforth, the two weeks leave it earlier offered would be extended to a six-week long break from the office to take care of their families and their new born children.
New leave
Newly introduced family caregiver leave benefit
Microsoft India has also introduced a new leave policy which entitles the employees to take a four-weeks leave, if a serious medical emergency occurs with their immediate family members. This policy defines that spouse/domestic partner, parent/in-law, sibling, grandparent or child as immediate family members and their ailments would entitle the employees to take the leave to take care of them.
Policy
Empowering employees to form a stronger bond
Microsoft's HR head, Ira Gupta said, "We want our policies to be inclusive and as empowering as they can be to allow our employees to do what they want to do as their family needs them." She added, "We hope the extended parental leave benefits will further improve work-life balance for our employees, and help them transition back to the workplace."
Microsoft
Revised policy of Microsoft India as of now
Thanks to the maternity bill passed by the Indian government, major firms along with Microsoft are giving a 26-week maternity leave; the firm also is giving the same for surrogacy and adoption. Paternity leave now stands extended at 6 weeks and provision of taking a 4 weeks-leave to cater to the health conditions of an immediate family member is also in place.
Backlash
Paternity leave is just an excuse to take an holiday
Maneka Gandhi had once said paternity leave was an excuse to take a holiday causing a significant backlash. She said, "Men in India do not utilize their existing leaves in order to take care of their child. If men gave me one iota of hope by taking sick leave for child care, then yes, we can think of mooting a proposal for paternity leave"
Doggy's day out
I am applying for a "Pawternity Leave"
Doggy parents may feel excited to know that Harper Collins Publishers India has decided to give a paid leave of 5 days if you are bringing a four-legged furry friend to your home forever. This holiday would give you more time to bond with your new best friend for life and not worry yourself silly, while you are trying to work.