On March 9, the Parliament of India took a historic decision by increasing the paid maternity leave for women from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. There will also be a leave of up to 12 weeks for a woman adopting a child below the age of three months. Crèche facilities for companies with more than 50 employees are yet another laudable initiative. The decision will empower women in their work lives as well as contribute towards the health and wellbeing of both the mother and the newborn child. With this move, the government is sending a strong message to the society that biological commitments should not become a hindrance to pursue one’s personal goals irrespective of gender. So, India now has become the third best country in terms of the duration of maternity leave given to women.

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