In India, the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961 governs the maternity benefits, rights, and obligations of female employees. Here are the key provisions:

Maternity leave: Female employees are entitled to a maternity leave of 26 weeks for the first two children. For the third child and beyond, the leave entitlement is 12 weeks. The leave can be taken before or after the delivery date.

Maternity pay: Female employees are entitled to maternity pay for the entire duration of their maternity leave. The amount of pay is calculated at the rate of the average daily wage for the period of leave.

Nursing breaks: Female employees are entitled to nursing breaks of up to four times a day until the child is 15 months old.

Work from home: Female employees can work from home for up to four weeks before the delivery date if they choose to.

No discrimination: Employers are prohibited from discriminating against female employees on the basis of their maternity status. They cannot terminate their employment during pregnancy or on their return from maternity leave.

Obligations of female employees: Female employees must give notice to their employer at least six weeks before the expected date of delivery. They must also provide a medical certificate stating the expected date of delivery.

Obligations of employers: Employers must display the provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act in a prominent location in the workplace. They must also inform female employees of their entitlements under the Act.

In addition to the Maternity Benefit Act, some states in India have their own laws governing maternity benefits. It is important for both employers and employees to be aware of their rights and obligations under the relevant laws. We keep upadates on states law too.