Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar on Tuesday announced a flexible work timing initiative for women state government employees working within the jurisdiction of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.
Under the “Come Early, Go Early” initiative, women employees will be allowed to report to work between 9:15 am and 9:45 am and leave early in the evening by the same number of minutes, provided they complete the required working hours.
Speaking during a special discussion in the legislative council to mark International Women's Day, Pawar said the move aims to ease difficulties faced by women during peak-hour travel.
“This decision will provide major relief to women by reducing the inconvenience caused by rush hour crowds,” she said, reiterating the government’s commitment to the holistic development, safety and empowerment of women.
Highlighting safety initiatives, the CM said 42,594 children were traced through 14 campaigns conducted under Operation Muskan between July 2015 and February 2026. Additionally, Operation Shodh helped trace 5,066 women and 2,771 children.
She added that missing persons cells are operational across all districts, while 51 Bharosa cells have been established to address women’s issues. Technology is also being increasingly used to improve safety, including systems to prevent cybercrime at major railway stations such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Churchgate railway station, and Borivali railway station.
Pawar also highlighted several economic empowerment schemes for women, including Ladki Bahin, Namo Mahila Sakshamikaran, Lek Ladki, Annapurna Scheme, and Lakhpati Didi.
Platforms such as Umed Mall, Umed Mart, and Mahalakshmi Saras have also been launched to provide markets for products made by self-help groups, many of which are now available on online platforms.
The deputy chief minister said the government is also considering improving the honorarium and infrastructure for anganwadi workers and helpers. Drinking water facilities have already been provided at 17,254 anganwadi centres across the state.
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She further noted that the state has sanctioned 180 days of maternity leave for government employees and allows up to one year of half-pay leave after maternity leave without requiring a medical certificate.
Pawar added that the state’s 4th Women’s Policy has been implemented and a high-level committee formed for its effective execution. The government is also running the Adishakti Abhiyan to promote safety and dignity for rural women, prevent child marriage, create atrocity-free villages and reduce school dropout rates among girls.