In a path-breaking development, the Central Government has recently approved the Kerala Government’s decision to bring teachers and other staff of private educational institutions under the Maternity Benefit Act. When the amendment to the Act comes into force, Kerala would become the first state in India to provide maternity benefits in the private educational sector. The employees covered under the law can avail 26 weeks’ maternity leave with salary. Moreover, an employer has to provide an amount of Rs 1,000 rupees as a medical allowance.