Odisha government has introduced clear guidelines regarding maternity leave for women government employees, aiming to resolve confusion surrounding eligibility and duration under various circumstances.
The new framework, approved by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, provides structured leave policies for expectant mothers, those joining service post-childbirth, and cases involving miscarriage, stillbirth, or newborn death.
Key Highlights of the New Guidelines in Odisha
The revised maternity leave rules ensure greater clarity for female government employees, addressing previous ambiguities in the policy.
The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) released a statement outlining the following provisions:
- Eligibility Period for Maternity Leave
- A female government employee can avail 180 days of maternity leave, starting three months before the Expected Date of Delivery (EDD) and within six months after childbirth.
- Employees can take leave continuously or in multiple phases, as long as they give birth in a recognized medical facility.
- Leave for Those Joining Service Post-Delivery
- If a woman joins government service after childbirth, she can still apply for maternity leave until her child reaches six months of age.
- In such cases, the leave period may be less than 180 days, depending on how much time remains before the child turns six months.
- Leave Provisions in Case of Miscarriage or Child Loss
- If a female government employee experiences a miscarriage, stillbirth (after 28 weeks), or the death of a newborn within 28 days of birth, she is eligible for 42 days of maternity leave from the date of the incident.
- If the child dies between 29 and 120 days after birth, the mother will be granted 14 days of maternity leave starting from the date of the child’s death.
- If her original maternity leave has ended, these 14 days will be granted as a separate leave period.
Government’s Rationale Behind the Policy Update
The Odisha government recognized the long-standing confusion surrounding maternity leave eligibility, particularly for women who joined service post-childbirth or faced medical emergencies.
The new guidelines aim to provide structured support for female employees, ensuring fair access to maternity benefits while maintaining workplace efficiency.
The CMO’s statement highlighted that the revised rules will eliminate ambiguity, making maternity leave policies clearer for women employees.
These changes will provide greater flexibility, helping them balance professional responsibilities with maternal health needs.
Impact on Women Employees in Odisha
The clarification of maternity leave rules will benefit thousands of female government employees across Odisha.
The structured framework ensures that women can plan their maternity leave effectively, reducing uncertainty and administrative hurdles.
The provisions for miscarriage, stillbirth, and newborn death demonstrate a compassionate approach to employee welfare.
They acknowledge the emotional and physical challenges faced by affected employees.
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