Understanding Maternity Benefits: Do Probation and Holidays Count in the 80 Days of Service?

Hi All, I have a question. As per The Maternity Benefit Act, women employees must have completed 80 days of service in an establishment in the 12 months prior to their expected date of delivery. Does the probation period, any leaves, public holidays, festivals, and weekly off (Saturday/Sunday) include in these 80 days or exclude? What is the meaning of 80 days of service? Is it 80 working days excluding the probation period, any leaves, public holidays, festivals, and weekly off (Saturday/Sunday)?

Thanks

Dear Swati, had you made a little effort to read the explanation following the proviso of Section 5(2) of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, you would have your own answer to your query. Please read the entire Section 5 of the Act. The period of probation is always an inseparable part of an employee's total service in an organization and should be counted for all employment benefits, including maternity benefits.