Maharashtra Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar Announces Up To 1-Year Maternity Leave, ‘Come Early, Leave Early’ Scheme For Women Government Employees
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Mumbai, March 10, 2026: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar on Tuesday announced major welfare measures for women government employees, including extended maternity leave of up to one year and a flexible working scheme titled “Come Early, Leave Early.”
The announcements were made during her first speech in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, coinciding with celebrations of International Women’s Day.
Maternity Leave Up to One Year
Pawar said the state government has taken important decisions to support women employees and strengthen women’s empowerment.
As per the announcement, women government employees will be eligible for 180 days of maternity leave, in line with the policy followed by the central government. After this period, if required, they can take additional leave of up to one year on half pay without needing a medical certificate.
“The objective of this decision is to respect motherhood and help women balance family responsibilities and their professional duties,” Pawar said.
‘Come Early, Leave Early’ Scheme
The Deputy Chief Minister also introduced a flexible working scheme for women government employees in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Under the “Come Early, Leave Early” initiative, women employees who report to work between 9:15 am and 9:40 am will be allowed to leave the office earlier in the evening by the same number of minutes, with a maximum relaxation of up to 30 minutes.
Pawar said the move aims to reduce inconvenience caused by heavy commuting crowds, especially for women working in the Mumbai metropolitan area.
Remarks on Shakti Bill
Pawar also spoke about the proposed Shakti Criminal Law Bill 2020, which had earlier been sent to the Centre. She said the bill was withdrawn after the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita from July 1, 2024.
A committee headed by the state Director General of Police has now recommended necessary amendments in line with the new law. Pawar said the state government is working on the proposal and remains committed to introducing stronger legal measures for women’s safety.
She added that she would personally discuss the matter with the Chief Minister to ensure the legislation is brought forward at the earliest.
