Annual Leave Rules in India

In India, most employees are entitled to paid annual leave, commonly referred to as "earned leave." According to the Factories Act, 1948, employees who work in factories are entitled to 1 day of leave for every 20 days of work completed. Similarly, the Shops and Establishments Act, which varies by state, typically provides for a minimum of 12 to 30 days of paid leave per year, depending on the specific legislation applicable to the establishment. It is important to note that the exact number of leave days can differ based on the nature of employment and the applicable state laws.

Additionally, employees are encouraged to utilize their leave within a specific time frame, as many organizations have policies that stipulate the carryover of unused leave days. Employers are required to maintain records of leave taken and ensure that employees are aware of their leave entitlements. The Payment of Wages Act, 1936, also mandates that wages for the leave period must be paid to the employees. For more detailed information on employee rights regarding paid annual leave in India, you can refer to the Ministry of Labour and Employment's official website: Ministry of Labour and Employment.