Shailja, a female employee working in a multinational company, informed the manager of the company about her pregnancy. She sought guidance on maternity leave entitlements and benefits under the Maternity Benefit Act, 19

Under the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, maternity leave entitlement and benefits are provided to eligible female employees to ensure their health, well-being, and job security during pregnancy and childbirth. Here are the key provisions regarding maternity leave entitlement and benefits under the Act: Duration of Maternity Leave: The Maternity Benefit Act entitles eligible female employees to a minimum of 26 weeks of maternity leave. However, for women who have already had two or more children, the duration of maternity leave is reduced to 12 weeks. Commencement of Maternity Leave: Maternity leave can commence up to eight weeks before the expected date of delivery (pre-natal leave). If the woman works in a factory, and her delivery occurs during the pre-natal leave period, the maternity leave will automatically extend for six weeks following the delivery. Wages During Maternity Leave: During the period of maternity leave, the woman is entitled to receive maternity benefit, which is payable at the rate of her average daily wage for the period of her absence. The average daily wage is calculated based on the average wage earned- by the woman during the three months immediately preceding the date of her maternity leave. Medical Bonus: In addition to maternity benefit, eligible women are entitled to receive a medical bonus if they do not receive free medical care from their employer during pregnancy and childbirth. Leave for Miscarriage or Medical Termination of Pregnancy: In case of miscarriage or medical termination of pregnancy, a woman is entitled to six weeks of maternity leave immediately following the day of her miscarriage or termination. Notice of claim for Maternity Leave: A woman intending to take maternity leave is required to give her employer written notice of her pregnancy and her intention to avail maternity leave, at least six weeks before the date of her expected delivery. Protection Against Dismissal or Discharge: The Maternity Benefit Act prohibits the dismissal or discharge of a woman during her absence on maternity leave. It also prohibits the employer from changing her conditions of service to her disadvantage during this period. Nursing breaks: Every woman delivered of a child who returns to duty after such delivery shall, in addition to the interval for rest allowed to her, be allowed in the course of her daily work two breaks of the prescribed duration for nursing the child until the child attains the age of fifteen months. Creche Facility: Every establishment having fifty or more employees shall have the facility of creche within such distance as may be prescribed, either separately or along with common facilities. The employer shall allow four visits a day to the creche by the woman, which shall also include the interval for rest allowed to her. Employer's Obligations: Employers are required to display an abstract of the Maternity Benefit Act at the workplace and provide information about maternity benefits to eligible female employees. Employers must also ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act regarding maternity leave, benefits, and protections for female employees. These provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act aim to support women during pregnancy and childbirth, promote their health and well-being, and ensure their job security and economic independence. It is essential for employers to be aware of and comply with these provisions to protect the rights of female employees. Thus, Shailja is advised accordingly on the maternity leave entitlement and benefits available to her under Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.