Fri Feb 06 08:25:40 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Uttar Pradesh MP Calls for Mandatory Leave to Care for Aging Parents
The Story:
On February 6, 2026, Uttar Pradesh MP Sumitra Balmik advocated for a nationwide policy mandating 45 days of leave for employees, in both government and private sectors, to care for parents over the age of 60. Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Ms. Balmik emphasized the growing number of senior citizens in India and the challenges faced by the “sandwich generation” who are responsible for both their aging parents and their own professional lives. She argued that with increasing urbanization and employment opportunities drawing young people away from their homes, the need for dedicated care for elderly parents has become critical.
Key Points:
* Sumitra Balmik, an Uttar Pradesh MP, proposed mandatory 45-day leave for employees to care for parents over 60 years old.
* The proposal was raised during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha on February 6, 2026.
* Ms. Balmik highlighted the challenges faced by the “sandwich generation.”
* She noted that the number of senior citizens in India has exceeded 14.9 crore in 2026 and is projected to exceed 23 crore by 2036.
* She emphasized the importance of sons and daughters being available for primary care, given the growing “silver economy.”
Key Takeaways:
* The proposal reflects a growing concern about the welfare of elderly citizens in India and the strain on families providing care.
* The focus on mandatory leave suggests a recognition that informal care arrangements are insufficient to meet the needs of the aging population.
* The MP’s reference to the “silver economy” indicates an awareness of the economic potential associated with the elderly population and the need to support their well-being.
* The timing of the proposal, during the Budget Session, may be strategic to influence upcoming policy decisions related to social welfare and labor laws.
* The comparison to maternity leave suggests an attempt to frame elder care as a socially valuable and necessary responsibility, similar to childcare.
Impact Analysis:
The proposal for mandatory elder care leave, if implemented, could have significant implications for Indian society and the economy. It could improve the quality of life for elderly citizens by ensuring they receive adequate care from their children. However, it could also create challenges for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, who may struggle to manage employee absences. The policy could also influence labor laws and workplace practices, potentially leading to increased pressure for family-friendly policies and greater recognition of the needs of caregivers. Furthermore, this can push for the improvement of the “silver economy” with better facilities and care for the elderly.
First Piper 