Women who worked at least 80 days in the 12 months before the expected delivery get 26 weeks’ leave at the average daily wage (12 weeks for the third child onward; 12 weeks for adopting or commissioning mothers of a child under 3 months). A medical bonus applies if no free pre- and post-natal care is provided.
FAQ
How many weeks of paid maternity leave in India?
26 weeks for the first two children, 12 weeks after that.
Sources (checked 6 Nov 2026): Code on Social Security 2020 (in force 21 Nov 2025), maternity benefit chapter.