Empowering Motherhood: A Comprehensive Guide to The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 

AUTHOR: Himani, Student, Dr Br Ambedkar University, karampura campus, Ba(law and politics)

Introduction :- 

The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 is a significant piece of legislation in India that aims at protecting the rights and welfare of working women during pregnancy and after childbirth. It was passed in an era of increased involvement of women in employment and seeks to address the urgent need for legal protection and assistance to pregnant and nursing mothers. The goal of this Act is to establish a more balanced workforce by offering maternity benefits such as paid leave, job security among others. Besides offering financial assistance and healthcare support, it assists in shaping policies that govern maternal welfare at places of work. It also serves to reinforce that pregnancy or motherhood ought not to be obstacles to women's career growth by ensuring they can take necessary time off without any fear of losing their jobs. Not only does this benefit individual families but it also translates into a more productive and motivated workforce through employee loyalty and