Workplace Motherhood and Reproductive Justice: Psychosocial Interpretation of Maternity Benefit Implementation in Urban India

Objective: This study examines the psychosexual and socio-economic dimensions of maternity benefits in the IT industry of Delhi-NCR. It aims to evaluate the implementation of maternity benefit policies and assess their impact on women’s reproductive rights, employment decisions, and work–life balance. Methods: The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through a web-based survey using structured questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained through an extensive review of relevant literature. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses were employed. Machine learning techniques, including Logistic Regression, Random Forest, and K-Means Clustering, were used to identify patterns, predictors, and relationships within the dataset. Results: The findings reveal a substantial gap between statutory maternity benefit provisions and their implementation. Many respondents reported job insecurity, inadequate workplace support, dissatisfaction with maternity benefits, limited awareness of legal rights, organizational bias, and insufficient flexible work arrangements. These challenges negatively affect women’s workforce participation, career advancement, and overall workplace well-being, thereby reinforcing gender inequalities within the IT sector. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for stronger enforcement of maternity benefit legislation and more gender-responsive workplace policies. It recommends enhanced organizational accountability, greater awareness of employee rights, flexible work arrangements, and the inclusion of supportive measures such as paternity leave to promote an equitable, inclusive, and family-friendly work environment that safeguards women’s reproductive rights and professional development.