Under the Code on Social Security, 2020, what is the duration of paid maternity leave available to a woman employee for her third child?

Solution

Explanation:  The Code on Social Security, 2020 retains the maternity benefit provisions originally introduced by the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017. A woman employee is entitled to 26 weeks of paid maternity leave for her first and second child. However, for the third child and beyond, the entitlement is reduced to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave. This distinction is deliberate it aligns social security policy with the government's family planning objectives while still ensuring that women are not left entirely without protection. Option (A) is incorrect because the 26-week period does not apply uniformly to all children. Option (D) is wholly incorrect as the Code does not deny maternity benefit for a third child it merely reduces the duration. The 12-week figure is a frequently tested number in objective exams and must be remembered precisely.