Maternity Leave in India: Am I Eligible for Paid Leave with My Fourth Child?

Dear Member,

I need assistance related to Maternity Leave Policy in India. We are in Bangalore, and I am working in an IT Company.

I am due with my fourth child - am I eligible for Maternity paid leave? If so, then how much?

Hi,

Maternity leave applicability is 26 weeks (182 days) for the first two children. After the second delivery, maternity leave applicable as per the act is 12 weeks only and not 26 weeks. The Maternity Benefit Act is applicable to all establishments employing 10 or more employees.

Maternity benefits available under the ESI scheme

The ESI scheme provides maternity benefits at the rate of full wage, subject to an insured woman's contribution for at least 80 days in the preceding two consecutive contribution periods. The scheme also offers a confinement expense of Rs 5000 (US$70) if the confinement occurs at a place where necessary medical facilities under the ESI scheme are not available.

The benefits are available to insured women for up to a period of twenty-six weeks (extendable by one month on medical advice), of which not more than eight weeks shall precede the expected date of confinement. For an insured woman having two or more surviving children, the scheme offers maternity benefits for a period of twelve weeks, of which not more than six weeks shall precede the expected date of confinement.

Regards, P. Senthil
Coimbatore.