The Government has revised its Civil Service Regulations to grant special paid leave to employees who assume guardianship of infants under State care.

The amendment aims to align foster care benefits with existing maternity leave provisions, reflecting a broader policy shift to support alternative family structures.

Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham previously announced that the changes would take effect in April, with updated provisions designed to better accommodate the needs of children in State care and their guardians.

Under the revised regulations, civil servants who take custody of infants under six months old will be entitled to paid leave with full salary and benefits until the child reaches six months of age. If the child is already over six months, or reaches that age within 30 days of placement, guardians will be granted 30 days of paid leave.

The Government has also introduced financial support measures, including a monthly allowance of USD 324.28 for each child placed in families facing financial difficulties.

Officials said the changes are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen child welfare systems. Since November 2023, a total of 111 children have been placed with families under State care arrangements.

In addition, amendments have been made to extend caregiving support for working parents. Paid nursing breaks, previously limited to a child’s first year, have now been extended until the age of two. Employers are required to provide two 30-minute paid breaks per day to support childcare during working hours.

The reforms are expected to ease the burden on caregivers while promoting family-based care for children in need.