Navigating Maternity Leave: Can I Choose 6 Months Post-Delivery Instead of Pre-Leave?

Hi, I am working in a corporate company, XXX CENTRAL HOSPITAL. I am under the ESI panel for the last 3 years, and my ESI is deducted from the same. I want to confirm, is it compulsory to take pre-3 months leave from the expected due date of delivery and post-3 months after the delivery, or can I also take 6 months leave post-delivery, which is more beneficial to me? My next query is, is the salary paid by ESI to me for just 3 months, or will it be for the whole 6 months when I will be on leave.

Kindly reply to my query to help me out of this situation.

Regards, Yashika Chugh
Senior Executive

It is not mandatory to take a three-month leave before the expected date of birth, although it is mentioned in the act.

Yashika, it is up to you how you choose your maternity leave. Yes, you can take all leave post-delivery, no restrictions. You are entitled to the whole 6 months' salary. For further clarifications or any legal queries, you can email/WhatsApp me.