RS passes Bill to enhance maternity benefits

The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill 2007, has been passed by the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday virtually without any debate as the House plunged into pandemonium created by opposition on the farmers' plight. Women working in factories, shops and plantation will get enhanced maternity benefits as Parliament passes amendments in the law. Under the new law, the medical bonus paid to women under the maternity benefits would be increased to Rs 1,000 from Rs 250. The Bill also gives powers to the Centre to enhance this benefit further subject to a maximum of Rs 20,000. Though many members especially Jaya Bachchan (SP) and Brinda Karat (CPI-M) wanted to participate in the discussion, the Bill was passed in the din through voice vote. The Maternity Benefit Act 1961 regulates the employment of women in factories, circus industry, plantation and shops or establishments employing ten or more persons excepting those covered under the Employees State Insurance (ESI). The Act defines the quantum of maternity and other benefits before and after child birth. While the amendment revises the bonus amount, the compensation equivalent to average daily wage for 12 weeks remains unchanged.

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