Maharashtra Govt Introduces Flexible Office Timing For Women Employees In Mumbai

In a move aimed at improving work-life balance for women employees, the Maharashtra government has announced a flexible office timing policy for women working in government offices within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) jurisdiction.

The announcement was made by Sunetra Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, during a discussion in the legislative council held to mark International Women's Day.

‘Come Early, Go Early’ Initiative

Under the new “Come Early, Go Early” initiative, women state government employees will be allowed flexible reporting times between 9:15 am and 9:45 am.

Employees who report later within the allowed window will still be required to complete their designated working hours but can leave earlier in the evening by the same number of minutes.

According to Pawar, the policy is designed to reduce the challenges women face during peak-hour commuting in Mumbai, especially in crowded public transport systems.

Focus On Women’s Safety And Welfare

During her address, the deputy chief minister reiterated the state government's commitment to ensuring greater opportunities, safety and respect for women in society.

She highlighted that several initiatives have been undertaken to address women’s safety and welfare across the state.

For instance, under Operation Muskan, authorities traced 42,594 children through 14 campaigns conducted between July 2015 and February 2026.

Similarly, Operation Shodh helped locate 5,066 women and 2,771 children during the same period.

Strengthening Safety Infrastructure

Pawar also noted that missing persons cells are operational in all districts of the state, while 51 Bharosa cells have been set up to support women facing distress or violence.

The government has also expanded the use of technology to improve safety. Cybercrime monitoring systems have been installed at major railway stations including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Churchgate railway station, and Borivali railway station.

Schemes Supporting Women’s Economic Empowerment

The deputy chief minister highlighted several government schemes aimed at strengthening women’s economic independence. These include initiatives such as:

• Ladki Bahin Yojana
• Namo Mahila Sakshamikaran Abhiyan
• Lek Ladki Yojana
• Annapurna Yojana
• Lakhpati Didi Scheme
   

In addition, platforms such as Umed Mall, Umed Mart, and Mahalakshmi Saras have been launched to provide marketing opportunities for products made by women’s self-help groups, including online sales channels.

Support For Anganwadi Workers

The state government is also considering improvements in honorarium and infrastructure for anganwadi workers and helpers.

According to Pawar, 17,254 anganwadi centres have already been provided with drinking water facilities, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve grassroots-level support services.

Additional Welfare Measures

The government has also approved 180 days of maternity leave for government employees, along with the option of up to one year of half-pay leave after maternity leave without requiring a medical certificate.

Pawar further noted that the state’s Fourth Women’s Policy is currently being implemented through a dedicated high-level committee.

Another major initiative, the Adishakti Abhiyan, focuses on improving the quality of life for rural women by addressing issues such as child marriage, girls’ education and gender-based violence.

Through these measures, the Maharashtra government aims to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for women across urban and rural areas.