Are Private School Teachers Eligible for Full Maternity Benefits? Seeking Clarity and Latest Amendments

Hi friends in Cite HR, a known friend of mine works as a teacher in a private school in Tamil Nadu. She's not a government-aided teacher but has been classified as management staff as per the school norms. Yet, she has received her appointment letter and has been serving the school for the past 4 years. Her normal deductions are also made (PF) as per the salary breakup.

She recently delivered a baby and upon approaching the school management for her maternity leave, she was informed that she would be granted only 3 months of leave, out of which 2 months would be paid leave, and the rest would be on LOP/LWP. This came as a surprise to me as it does not align with the previous Maternity Benefit Act.

Maternity Benefit for Private School Teachers

My concern is whether private school teachers fall under the current Maternity Benefit Leave order, and if the Maternity Benefit is applicable to all staff in a school (private or government teachers).

Request for Latest Amendment

Also, I would like to download the latest amendment of the Maternity Benefit Act. Can anyone please share?

Thank you, friends, for your valuable responses.

Regards, John

Maternity Benefits for School Teachers

Maternity benefits are applicable to school teachers. The lady in question has worked for 4 years, and she is entitled to these benefits.

I would suggest to the lady: You may submit the intimation of pregnancy and expected date of delivery to the appointing authority, Chairman, with a copy of the doctor’s certificate showing the date of delivery. Include a notice for payment of maternity benefit, stating that your maternity benefit and any other amount to which you are entitled under this Act may be paid to you. She needs to claim the medical bonus also (Rs. 3500).

In case of any issue, raise the level to the Labour Commissioner.