Maha Shivaratri Holiday 2026: AP Govt Declares Optional Holiday on February 16

In welcome news for government employees in Andhra Pradesh, the state government has announced an optional holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026, following Maha Shivaratri, which falls on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The General Administration Department has issued an official Government Order (GO) confirming the decision. Since Maha Shivaratri is a major Hindu festival and many devotees observe night-long prayers and fasting, the government has provided this additional leave option so employees can take rest after participating in religious observances.