In a recent statement, NITI Aayog member V K Paul emphasized the importance of extending maternity leave for women workers in both the private and public sectors. Currently, women in India are entitled to 26 weeks (approximately six months) of paid maternity leave, thanks to the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill passed by Parliament in 2017. However, Paul suggests considering a further extension of maternity leave to nine months.
The call to enhance maternity leave stems from the recognition of the crucial role mothers play in the upbringing and well-being of their children. Extending maternity leave would provide mothers with additional time to bond with their newborns, promote their overall health, and ensure a smoother transition back to work. The proposal is also in line with global trends and evolving societal expectations regarding work-life balance and gender equality.
FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), a leading women’s business organization, echoed Paul’s sentiments in a statement. They emphasized the need for collaboration between the private and public sectors to contemplate the possibility of increasing maternity leave from the current six months to nine months. This collaboration is essential to ensure that the interests of both employers and employees are considered, and that adequate support structures are put in place.
The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill, 2016, was a significant step forward in recognizing the rights of working mothers in India. It extended the duration of paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks, aligning with international standards set by the International Labor Organization (ILO). The legislation aimed to provide women with sufficient time to recover from childbirth, care for their newborns, and transition back to the workplace with confidence.
However, as societal dynamics continue to evolve, it is essential to periodically reevaluate policies to meet the changing needs and expectations of working women. Extending maternity leave to nine months would enable mothers to spend more time nurturing their children during the crucial early stages of development. This extension may also contribute to positive long-term outcomes for both the mothers and their families.
The proposal to increase maternity leave aligns with the global trend of enhancing support systems for working parents. Many countries have recognized the benefits of providing longer maternity leave to mothers. By doing so, they acknowledge the positive impact it has on child health, maternal well-being, and overall gender equality.
If the proposal is considered and implemented, it will require a comprehensive approach that involves stakeholders from both the private and public sectors. Employers need to reassess their policies and adapt to the changing needs of their workforce. Companies that prioritize employee well-being and work-life balance are more likely to attract and retain talented women, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
Furthermore, the government can play a crucial role in facilitating this transition by introducing supportive policies and providing incentives to encourage private companies to adopt longer maternity leave policies. This collaboration between the public and private sectors would help ensure that the benefits of extended maternity leave are accessible to women across various industries and sectors.
NITI Aayog member V K Paul’s call to extend maternity leave from six months to nine months reflects a growing recognition of the importance of supporting working mothers in India. The proposal aligns with global trends and aims to provide mothers with more time to bond with their children and ensure a smoother transition back to work. Collaboration between the private and public sectors is vital to explore this possibility and create an environment that prioritizes the well-being of women in the workforce. By fostering a supportive culture and implementing policies that promote work-life balance, India can take significant steps towards achieving gender equality and inclusive economic growth.
