UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY202410 Marks
Q14.

You are requested to kindly grant me leave.

How to Approach

This question, while seemingly simple, tests the candidate's ability to write a formal, concise, and professional communication – a crucial skill for a civil servant. The approach should be to draft a standard leave application, adhering to bureaucratic norms. Key points to cover include stating the reason for leave (even if general), the duration, and contact information. The structure should follow a typical application format: salutation, body with request and details, and a respectful closing.

Model Answer

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Introduction

In the context of public service, effective communication is paramount. A leave application, though a routine document, reflects an officer’s professionalism and adherence to established procedures. The ability to articulate a request clearly and concisely is a fundamental skill expected of civil servants. This response aims to provide a model leave application, demonstrating the appropriate tone, format, and content expected in such a communication. It acknowledges the implicit expectation of a formal request, even with minimal prompting.

To,

The [Designation of Reporting Officer],

[Department Name],

[Address of Office].

Subject: Application for Leave

Respected Sir/Madam,

With due respect, I am writing to request a leave of absence from duty for [Number] days, commencing on [Start Date] and concluding on [End Date].

Reason for Leave

I require this leave for [State Reason – be specific if possible, otherwise use a general phrase like ‘personal reasons’ or ‘urgent private matters’]. I understand the importance of my responsibilities and have made arrangements to ensure minimal disruption during my absence. [If applicable: ‘I have briefed [Colleague’s Name] on my ongoing tasks and provided necessary instructions.’]

Contact Information

I will be available via email at [Your Email Address] and mobile phone at [Your Mobile Number] for any urgent matters.

I would be grateful if you would kindly grant me leave as requested.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Yours faithfully,

[Your Name]

[Your Designation]

[Date]

Conclusion

In conclusion, a well-crafted leave application demonstrates professionalism and respect for organizational procedures. While the question is deliberately simple, it serves as a test of basic communication skills essential for effective governance. A clear, concise, and respectful application, as outlined above, is the expected response, highlighting the candidate’s understanding of bureaucratic norms and their ability to communicate effectively within a formal setting.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Leave Entitlement
Leave entitlement refers to the amount of time an employee is allowed to take away from work, typically for vacation, illness, or personal reasons. It is governed by rules and regulations specific to the employer or governing body (e.g., Central Civil Services Rules).
Resignation vs. Leave
Resignation is a permanent termination of employment, while leave is a temporary absence from work with the expectation of returning. Understanding this distinction is crucial when communicating with an employer.

Key Statistics

As of 2023, the average number of paid vacation days offered to employees in India is around 15-21 days per year, varying significantly based on industry and company policy. (Source: TeamLease Services, 2023)

Source: TeamLease Services, 2023

According to a 2022 survey by SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management), 84% of organizations offer paid time off (PTO) that combines vacation, sick, and personal days. (Source: SHRM, 2022)

Source: SHRM, 2022

Examples

Leave Management System (LMS)

Many government organizations and large corporations now utilize Leave Management Systems (LMS) to streamline the leave application process. These systems allow employees to submit requests online, track their leave balance, and receive automated approvals, enhancing efficiency and transparency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I need to extend my leave?

If you need to extend your leave, you should submit a formal request to your reporting officer as soon as possible, explaining the reason for the extension and providing the revised end date. Approval is subject to the officer’s discretion and organizational policies.