The Maharashtra government has introduced a new flexible work timing initiative for women government employees in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Called “Come Early, Go Early,” the scheme was announced by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar during a discussion in the state legislative council on International Women’s Day.
The initiative aims to improve work-life balance and make commuting easier for women in Mumbai, especially during the city’s notorious peak-hour traffic.
How the Scheme Works
Under the policy, women employees can start work between 9:15 am and 9:45 am.
Depending on how early they arrive, they can leave earlier by the same amount of time, up to a maximum of 30 minutes.
For example, if an employee reports 20 minutes early, she can leave 20 minutes early in the evening.
The government emphasizes that official work should not be affected by this flexible schedule.
Designed to Ease Mumbai’s Rush-Hour Travel
Mumbai’s suburban trains and city roads are extremely crowded during peak hours, making daily commutes stressful for women employees.
By allowing small adjustments to work timings, the government hopes to reduce travel stress, improve safety, and make commuting more convenient.
The scheme is applicable to women officers and employees working under the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and nearby districts in the MMR.
However, flexibility may not apply during urgent assignments, court-related duties, or legislative work, where regular office hours must be followed.
Part of Broader Women Empowerment Efforts
“Come Early, Go Early” is part of Maharashtra’s larger push to support working women.
The state has also expanded maternity benefits, offering 180 days of maternity leave along with an option for additional leave at half pay.
These measures are designed to create a flexible, inclusive, and supportive work environment for women in government jobs, helping them manage both professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.
