What is Restricted Holiday?
A Restricted Holiday (RH) is an optional holiday that employees can choose to take, depending on their preferences or needs. It is a paid leave and not mandatory, allowing employees the flexibility to celebrate or observe certain occasions. The maximum number of restricted holidays an employee can take in a year is usually limited and depends on the organization’s policy.
Key Points About Restricted Holidays
Definition and Purpose:
Optional holidays that employees can choose from a predefined list provided by the organization.
Promotes cultural inclusivity by accommodating diverse traditions and festivals.
Eligibility:
Government employees are generally eligible for restricted holidays.
For private companies, offering restricted holidays is optional and governed by the organization’s policies.
Paid Leave Status:
Restricted holidays are paid leaves offered by the company in addition to public holidays.
Maximum Number Allowed:
Employees can typically avail of up to two restricted holidays in a calendar year, though the number may vary in private organizations.
Approval Process:
Employees must usually seek prior approval for taking a restricted holiday unless it’s an unforeseen circumstance.
Carry-Forward Policy:
Whether restricted holidays can be carried forward to the next year depends on the organization's leave policy. Some companies allow carryover, while others require employees to use them within the same calendar year.
Example of Restricted Holidays:
In India, festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Makar Sankranti, or Onam are often categorized as restricted holidays. Employers typically share a list of such holidays at the beginning of the year, allowing employees to choose which ones to observe.