Balancing a Government Job and a Family Business: Could My Side Venture Affect My Career?

I have 4 years of experience as a software developer and secured a state government job in 2019. Now, I'm a permanent government employee. After my 10-to-5 shift, I'm dedicated to learning and enhancing my programming skills due to my deep passion for programming. Although I once aspired to become an entrepreneur, my career path led me to being a government employee. Recently, I got married, and my spouse, who is a graphic designer, wholeheartedly supports my aspirations. I am considering registering an LLP or Pvt. Ltd. company focused on software development and design under my spouse's name and that of other family members without my direct involvement, intending to contribute in my free time. I am curious if this endeavor could potentially impact my government job. Specifically, I am wondering about any regulations concerning spouse income.

Hi, you can check your service rules for this.

Your spouse may register an LLP or Pvt Ltd company, but you should not be in any way connected with it. The bank account and all transactions should be in the name of your spouse only. Also, you should not work for your spouse's company either part-time or full-time, or promote the company directly or indirectly using your influence with the government.

Many bureaucrats are involved in family businesses, but it is advisable to stay away from your spouse's business.

Spouse Income and Government Employee Regulations

There are no rules regarding spouse income, and irrespective of her earnings, she will be treated as dependent on you, entitled to all benefits she is otherwise due.

Restrictions on Business Activities for Government Employees

As a government employee, the Service Rules clearly forbid you from participating in any business activity directly or indirectly. Such clandestine activity in the name of the spouse or any other family member will be considered major misconduct, and if found out, can have serious adverse consequences.

Rights and Reporting Requirements

Your spouse, as well as other family members, enjoy the fundamental right to carry on any occupation, trade, business, or vocation of choice (Article 19 (1) (g)). However, check the Service Rules applicable to whether the business dealings of the spouse have to be reported, particularly if such a firm is in the same line of business. Many procedural safeguards are prescribed if you have to deal with the same matter, so go strictly as per the rules.