For startups is it mandated to include maternity leave?

1) This question is in regard to the Maternity Leave policy.
We are a startup based down in Mumbai, under Maharashtra governance. We are just 10-12 employees working as of now among which 8 are female.
So being an HR, I'm entitled to frame the leave policy. So for startups is it mandated to include maternity leave?

Looking forward to all the guidelines and help.
Thanks!
18th January 2023 From India, Mumbai

Hi, Yes Maternity leave being statutory one, you need to include it in the leave policy. For employees who are covered under ESI , they need to apply for maternity benefit through ESI>
18th January 2023 From India, Madras

Dear Smitha,
Yes Applicable,
V.M.Lakshminarayanan Sir is right.
Eligibility of maternity leave- A woman must have been working as an employee in an establishment for a period of at least 80 days in the past 12 months.
18th January 2023

Respected Sir/Colleagues,

One of our employee is eligible for maternity benefit. i believe the maternity leave benefit is extended to 26 weeks, in this regards, Can anyone share updated Maternity leave Policy in the state of Maharashtra.

Thanks in advance.
Anita Pereira
HR
19th January 2023 From India, Mumbai

Thank you ! Will keep that in mind
20th January 2023 From India, Mumbai

Hi Anita, Please refer the attached file.
20th January 2023 From India, Madras

Attached Files (Download Requires Membership)

Maternity Benefit Amendment Act,2017 .pdf (187.7 KB, 24 views)

Thank you very much Mr. Lakshminarayan for sharing Maternity Benefit act.PDF
20th January 2023 From India, Mumbai

Hi, I know maternity leave is 26 weeks. How is the maternity leave calculated? What are the things that are considered for maternity salary payment? Is full CTC included? Can someone share the calculation formula/steps for maternity salary
22nd January 2023 From India, Chennai