Maternity Leave Policy
The Maternity Leave Policy is a professionally structured statutory HR document designed to ensure full compliance with the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (India) while providing a supportive, gender-sensitive, and employee-friendly framework for female employees.
This policy clearly defines eligibility criteria, maternity leave entitlement for first, second and subsequent children, adoption and surrogacy provisions, wage payment methodology, medical bonus, nursing breaks, job protection, confidentiality, and misuse safeguards.
It also outlines leave application procedures, work-from-home or flexible work options (where feasible), and continuity of service, helping organizations manage maternity benefits in a legally compliant, compassionate, and dispute-free manner.
Why This Policy Is Important
- Ensures statutory compliance with the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961
- Protects the rights, dignity, and job security of female employees
- Promotes work-life balance and employee well-being
- Reduces legal, audit, and compliance risks
- Strengthens employer branding and inclusive workplace culture
Ideal For
- Startups & MSMEs
- Corporate organizations
- Factories & establishments covered under the Act
- HR, Payroll & Compliance teams
- Organizations focusing on diversity & inclusion
Key Coverage Areas
✔ Applicability & statutory compliance framework
✔ Eligibility criteria (80 days rule)
✔ 26 weeks paid leave for first & second child
✔ 12 weeks leave for third child onwards
✔ Adoption & surrogacy maternity benefits
✔ Payment of wages & medical bonus
✔ Leave application & approval process
✔ Work-from-home / flexible work provisions
✔ Employment protection during maternity leave
✔ Nursing breaks after return to work
✔ Confidentiality, misuse & disciplinary safeguards
✔ Policy review & statutory updates
Format: Editable (Word / PDF)
Access: Instant download after purchase
Customization: Easily adaptable to organization-specific HR practices
An essential statutory HR policy for creating a compliant, supportive, and inclusive workplace in India.