A woman employee has worked in an establishment for 95 days during the twelve months preceding her expected delivery date. She applies for maternity benefits under the Maternity Benefit Act. Which statement is correct?

Under the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (as amended), a woman is eligible for maternity benefit if she has worked for at least 80 days in the twelve months immediately preceding the expected date of delivery. Since she has completed 95 days, she satisfies the eligibility criterion. Why the other options are incorrect • A: Incorrect because the statutory requirement is 80 days, not 90.  • C: Incorrect. There is no requirement of one year's service.  • D: Incorrect. Eligibility depends on the Act's conditions, not merely permanent status.  • E: Incorrect. The Act does not prescribe a 180-day requirement.  IBPS Exam Point: Distinguish between eligibility (80 days of work) and the duration of maternity leave, which is a separate provision.