Under the Employees' State Insurance Act 1948, the Maternity Benefit payable to an insured woman is at what rate and for what duration?
- A 100% of wages for 12 weeks
- B 100% of average daily wages for 26 weeks ✓
- C 75% of average daily wages for 26 weeks
- D 100% of average daily wages for 16 weeks
Correct answer: B. 100% of average daily wages for 26 weeks
Explanation
Under Section 50 of the ESI Act, Maternity Benefit is payable to an insured woman at 100% of average daily wages for a maximum period of 26 weeks, with provision for extension of up to one month on medical advice. This is a cash benefit. The confinements are limited to two under the Act.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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