Corporate Compliance 17 September 2026
India Needs Parental Leave Overhaul to Share Care Duties
India’s current maternity‑leave system is limited to women and fails to address broader caregiving responsibilities. Experts argue a national parental‑leave policy should include equal paid leave for both parents, flexible duration, wage replacement, and provisions for low‑income families, ensuring shared social responsibility and better support for vulnerable households.
Key Recommendations for a National Parental‑Leave Policy
- Provide equal paid leave for mothers and fathers, encouraging shared caregiving.
- Allow flexible leave periods that can be taken intermittently or extended based on family needs.
- Offer wage replacement at a sustainable rate to protect low‑income households.
- Include provisions for adoptive parents and same‑sex couples to ensure inclusivity.
- Set a universal minimum standard while allowing states to add supplemental benefits.
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