As India advances its commitment to gender equity and the enhancement of workforce participation, the necessity for supportive workplace infrastructure becomes increasingly evident. Among the most pressing of these requirements is the provision of crèche facilities for working mothers, an intervention that has direct implications for productivity, mental health, and the pursuit of equal opportunity. In the Goan context, this need is particularly significant, as young mothers encounter distinct challenges in balancing professional responsibilities with childcare.
The participation of women in India’s workforce has expanded across diverse sectors, including education, healthcare, tourism, and information technology. Goa reflects this national trend, with a growing proportion of young mothers employed in government departments, private enterprises, educational institutions, and the thriving service industry. However, this positive development conceals the substantial difficulties faced by working mothers, especially those residing in nuclear families or separated from extended family support. In such situations, mothers are often compelled to seek private daycare services, which are increasingly costly and place considerable financial strain on young families.
The absence of affordable, accessible childcare options generates significant stress for working mothers, frequently leading to divided attention in the workplace and heightened anxiety regarding their children’s welfare. This, in turn, adversely affects not only individual performance but also overall workplace morale, staff retention, and institutional efficiency. In some cases, talented professionals are forced to interrupt their careers or withdraw from the workforce altogether, resulting in a loss of valuable human capital.
Although national legislation, such as the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017, mandates that establishments with 50 or more employees provide crèche facilities, implementation remains inconsistent. In Goa, despite its progressive social outlook, dedicated workplace crèche facilities are notably scarce. There is an urgent need for both the central and state governments to ensure the enforcement of existing laws while simultaneously offering incentives to organisations to establish on-site childcare services. Additionally, consideration should be given to providing childcare allowances to working mothers as an interim measure to alleviate financial burdens and enhance their well-being.
The establishment of crèches at or near the workplace affords mothers the opportunity to attend to their infants during breaks, fostering emotional security and supporting their dual roles as professionals and caregivers. Furthermore, it reflects a societal commitment to creating equitable and inclusive work environments. As Goa continues to position itself as a progressive state, it is imperative that it leads in instituting policies and practices that support young families and promote gender-inclusive growth.
Prioritising workplace crèche facilities should form an integral part of India’s and Goa’s vision for sustainable and equitable development. It is only through such measures that we can ensure that every mother is empowered to contribute fully to the workforce without compromising the care of her child.
