Thu Feb 05 13:02:04 UTC 2026: ### Kerala Government Considers Five-Day Work Week for Government Employees

The Story:

The Kerala government is revisiting the proposal to implement a five-day work week for its government employees. The Chief Secretary has scheduled an online meeting with recognized service organizations on February 6, 2026, to discuss the matter. This follows a postponed meeting from December 2025. While the government explores this possibility, recent nationwide strikes by banking sector trade unions demanding a similar five-day work week highlight the broader interest in this shift.

Key Points:

  • The Kerala government is considering a five-day work week for government employees.
  • A meeting is scheduled for February 6, 2026, to discuss the proposal with service organizations.
  • Banking sector trade unions across the country recently held strikes demanding a five-day work week.
  • Service organizations have expressed cautious support, emphasizing the potential for improved work-life balance but raising concerns about entitlements.
  • The Joint Council of State Service Organisations, pro-Communist Party of India, supports the proposal.
  • The 11th Pay Revision Commission (2021) previously suggested a five-day work week.
  • The government anticipates cost savings in overhead expenses.
  • The government is not putting forth specific recommendations but is asking for suggestions.
  • Most government offices are now e-offices and delivering almost all services online.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kerala government’s consideration of a five-day work week reflects a growing trend towards prioritizing work-life balance for employees.
  • The proposal’s success hinges on addressing concerns regarding potential impact on employee entitlements and ensuring uninterrupted public service delivery.
  • The shift to e-governance facilitates the feasibility of a compressed work week without significantly impacting accessibility to government services.

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