Maternity Leave Benefits: Can a Factory Worker Get Cash Benefits Without ESI Coverage?

Hi, I have a query. A female worker is working in a factory where ESI is NOT applicable. Her salary is 25000, which exceeds the legal wage ceiling (Rs 21000) for benefits under the ESI Act. In such a scenario, is she eligible for cash benefits by the employer for all the leave taken before and after delivery?

Thanks and Regards,
Muzammil

Yes, she is eligible provided she had worked for 80 days before the commencement of her leave.

If the company's all-inclusive manpower is 10 or more, the Maternity Benefit Act is applicable to it. There is no mention of salary in the act; it is applicable to all female employees. Benefits under ESI and the maternity act are the same.