Women’s Work, Maternity and Public Policy in India

Abstract

Women as bearers and nurturers of children provide the foundation for generating future citizens for the country and labourers for the economy. In addition to reproductive or care work, women also contribute as workers to the nation’s gross national product. In the labour market, women’s reproductive role constrains their full participation and also acts as a basis of gender discrimination. Maternity Benefit is a tool that mainly enables women to participate in the labour force even while pregnant and provides employment protection and compensation for loss of wages while on maternity leave. This report on women’s work, maternity protection and policy in India aims to provide a critical overview and assessment of the adequacy and efficacy of existing arrangements for Maternity Benefit in India; to highlight the knowledge gaps, lessons and best practices; and give recommendations for legislative and operational improvement.