Motherhood, a joyous voyage, carries with it a series of rights safeguarded by the Indian legal canvas. As you transition from the cocoon of maternity back to your workspace, it's quintessential to know and assert these rights as enshrined in the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017.

Right 1: Prolonged Maternity Leave:
The Act magnifies your leave from 12 to 26 weeks, allowing precious moments of healing and bonding with your new-born.

Right 2: Flexible Work Mode:
Upon completing the standard maternity leave, the Act paves the way for a potential work-from-home scenario, depending on job nature and mutual agreement with the employer.

Right 3: Crèche Facilities:
For establishments employing more than 50 individuals, a crèche facility is mandatory. This promotes child well-being, and you're permitted to visit four times daily, inclusive of your break.

Right 4: Anti-Discrimination Shield:
Maternity cannot eclipse your professional trajectory. The Act prohibits any discrimination ensuring job security, promotions, and benefits remain unaffected.

Right 5: Health and Safety Provisions:
Understanding postpartum sensitivities, the Act obliges employers to ensure a conducive environment, especially considering breastfeeding mothers.

Right 6: Full Salary During Leave:
The Act doesn't just grant you leave but ensures it's fully paid, providing economic stability as you navigate early motherhood.

Right 7: Safeguard Against Unfair Treatment:
You stand shielded against any dismissal or disadvantageous treatment during your maternity phase, fortifying your professional standing.

Right 8: Right to Information:
Your employer must inform you of the benefits under the Act at the time of your appointment. This guarantees that you're equipped and aware from the outset.

The Real Test: Implementation & Awareness

While the rights are robustly etched, the real test is in their application. A 2019 study indicated a gap between the legal rights and their actual implementation. Many women reported feelings of apprehension about returning to work post-maternity, not due to their professional challenges but owing to perceived inflexibility and lack of empathy from their workplaces. This underscores the importance of not only having rights but also the imperative need for workplaces to recognize, respect, and realize them.

Conclusion:

The journey from motherhood to the professional realm is adorned with challenges, but it's also fortified with rights. The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017, acts as a sentinel, ensuring you don't tread this path unarmed. As you wear the dual hat of a mother and a professional, remember, you're safeguarded and supported every step of the way. Assert, know, and champion your rights. After all, you're a force, doubly empowered!