16 Cr Women Affected

Shashi Tharoor has called for paid maternity leave to improve breastfeeding rates in India. He highlighted the challenges faced by women in the unorganised sector, who often have to balance their economic stability with their role as new mothers.

Over 16 crore women operate in India's unorganised sector, and many of them return to work within weeks after delivery. This is largely due to the need to sustain economic stability, as these women are often the primary breadwinners for their families.

Tharoor's call for paid maternity leave aims to address this issue and provide women with the support they need to care for their newborns. By allowing women to take paid leave, they can focus on breastfeeding and nurturing their children, without having to worry about their economic stability.

## Why it matters The lack of paid maternity leave in India's unorganised sector has significant consequences for breastfeeding rates. When women are forced to return to work soon after delivery, they often have to rely on formula feeding or other alternatives, which can be detrimental to the health and well-being of their children. By providing paid maternity leave, India can improve breastfeeding rates and give children the best possible start in life.

The issue of paid maternity leave is not just a matter of women's rights, but also a matter of economic stability and public health. By supporting women in the unorganised sector, India can take a significant step towards improving the health and well-being of its citizens.