Fatherhood Resources: India
Official paternity leave rules, mental health helplines, and verified support for fathers across India.
15 days
Govt Employee Paternity Leave
Under CCS Leave Rules 1972
No national law
Private Sector
Varies by employer policy
Up to 730 days
Child Care Leave (CCL)
For single fathers in central govt
Verified Resources for Indian Dads
Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules: Paternity Leave
GovernmentIndiaOfficial Department of Personnel and Training rules governing paternity leave for central government employees. Rule 43A provides 15 days of paid paternity leave for male government employees.
Ministry of Labour: Maternity Benefit Act
GovernmentIndiaThe Maternity Benefit Act 1961 governs maternity protections in India. While there is no equivalent national paternity leave law for private sector employees, this Act is the primary parental leave legislation.
iCall Psychosocial Helpline
Mental HealthIndiaFree psychosocial support helpline run by TISS (Tata Institute of Social Sciences). Provides counselling for fathers and individuals dealing with stress, depression, and family issues. Call 9152987821.
Vandrevala Foundation Helpline
HelplineIndiaFree 24/7 mental health helpline for India. Call 1860-2662-345 or 1800-2333-330. Provides support for fathers experiencing depression, anxiety, and family stress.
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights
GovernmentIndiaOfficial government body for child rights in India. Resources on child welfare, custody matters, and parental responsibilities under Indian law.
Equimundo: Program P India
OrganisationIndia & GlobalInternational program working with fathers in India and globally to promote positive, involved fatherhood. Evidence-based resources and community programs for fathers.
Key facts for Indian fathers
- •India has no national paternity leave law for private sector employees. Paternity leave in the private sector depends entirely on individual employer policy.
- •Central government employees are entitled to 15 days of paid paternity leave under Rule 43A of the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules 1972, for up to 2 children.
- •Single fathers in central government service (widowers, divorcees, or those with sole responsibility for children) can access Child Care Leave (CCL) of up to 730 days over their career.
- •Many state governments have their own paternity leave rules for state government employees. Check your state government's service rules for specific entitlements.
- •iCall (9152987821) and the Vandrevala Foundation (1860-2662-345) both offer free, confidential mental health support for fathers in India.