The Maternity Benefit Act, of 1961 is legislation enacted by the Parliament of India to regulate the employment of women in certain establishments and provide them with maternity benefits and other related benefits. The Act extends to the entire country and came into force on a date notified in the Official Gazette by the Central Government for mines and establishments involving performances, and by the State Government for other establishments.
The Act applies initially to factories, mines, plantations, and establishments involving performances, as well as shops or establishments with ten or more employees. However, the State Government, with the approval of the Central Government, can extend the provisions of the Act to other establishments or classes of establishments.
The Act defines key terms such as “appropriate Government,” “child,” “delivery,” and “employer.” It also specifies that the provisions of the Act do not apply to factories or establishments covered under the Employees’ State Insurance Act of 1948.
The Act prohibits the employment of women in any establishment for six weeks following the day of their delivery, miscarriage, or medical termination of pregnancy. During this period, women are not allowed to work in any establishment. Pregnant women can also request to be relieved from arduous work, work involving long hours of standing, or any work that may be harmful to their health during a specified period.
The Act further outlines provisions for maternity benefits, including the payment of wages during the period of maternity leave and additional benefits. It empowers the appropriate Government to appoint Inspectors for ensuring compliance with the Act.
Overall, the Maternity Benefit Act, of 1961 aims to protect the rights of women in the workforce by providing them with necessary benefits and safeguards during pregnancy and childbirth.
SOURCE: MAHAKAMGAR
