Important Topics for UPSC 2017 Exams​ (Amendments to the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961)

Important Topics for UPSC 2017 Exams​ (Amendments to the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961)

What is the Act all about?

• Maternity benefit Act 1961 protects the employment of women during the time of her maternity and entitles her of a 'maternity benefit' - i.e. full paid absence from work - to take care for her child.
  The act is applicable to all establishments employing 10 or more persons.
• The amendments will help 1.8 million women workforce in organised sector.

What are the Amendments?

• Increase Maternity Benefit from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for two surviving children and 12 weeks for more than two childern.
• 12 weeks Maternity Benefit to a 'Commissioning mother' and 'Adopting mother'.
• Facilitate 'Work from home'.
• Mandatory provision of Creche in respect of establishment having 50 or more employees.
• Obligation to notify: An obligation on employers to inform (in writing and electronically) to every woman newly appointed within the organization about the benefits available under the MB Act.