Closing the Gender Gap Strengthening Maternity Leave and Introducing Comprehensive Paternity Leave in India

Abstract

In India, gender equality in the workplace continues to be a critical issue, with a pronounced gap in workforce participation and career advancement between men and women. One of the key contributing factors to this disparity is the inadequate support for both maternity and paternity leave. This paper examines the potential of strengthening maternity leave policies and introducing comprehensive paternity leave as crucial steps toward closing the gender gap in India. While the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act of 2017 has extended maternity leave to 26 weeks, its benefits are unevenly distributed, especially in unorganized sectors, where women still struggle with job security during and after maternity. Moreover, the absence of robust paternity leave policies places the burden of childcare disproportionately on women, perpetuating gender stereotypes and limiting women's career growth. Introducing a more equitable paternity leave policy is crucial in redistributing parental responsibilities and supporting gender equality in both domestic and professional spheres. This study explores the potential societal, economic, and cultural impacts of such reforms, drawing insights from countries with established parental leave policies, such as Sweden and Norway. It argues that closing the gender gap in India requires not just maternity support but also a broader framework that includes men in
caregiving roles, fostering a more inclusive environment for women to return to the workforce and pursue leadership positions. By advocating for comprehensive parental leave policies, this paper aims to spark dialogue around policy reforms that can lead to long-term changes in gender dynamics, ensuring a more equitable and supportive work environment for all.