Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 03 July 2024
One Stop Centre under the Directorate of Social Welfare recently conducted an online awareness session focusing on the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. The session targeted pregnant working women across various locations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, aiming to educate them on their maternity rights and benefits both before and after delivery.
Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director of Social Welfare, elaborated on the key provisions of the Indian Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, and the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017. He highlighted the increase in maternity benefits under the Central Civil Services (CCS) rules, where the leave entitlement has been extended from 12 weeks to 180 days. Dr. Shakya stressed that these provisions are crucial for eliminating job insecurity, ensuring equal pay during pregnancy, and providing financial stability for mothers and their children.
Ms. Meenal Rajan, Case Worker at the One Stop Centre, led the session by outlining the objectives and significant features of the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961. She emphasised that the Act guarantees women employees the right to return to the same or an equivalent position with the same pay and benefits after maternity leave. Ms. Rajan also discussed the challenges and criticisms of the Act, various maternity policies, and the penalties for denying maternity leave. Furthermore, she informed participants about the services offered by the One Stop Centre, which include legal counselling, medical and psychological support, all aimed at combating violence against women. Women in need can approach the One Stop Centre near AYUSH hospital in Junglighat, Port Blair, or contact them via the landline number 234221, Help Line 181, or emergency number 112.
The session was well-attended by lawyers and members of the general public, reflecting a broad interest in the topic and a collective effort to support the rights and well-being of working women in the region.