Maternal and Child Health — Amendments

Amendment	Year	Description	Impact
Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act	2021	This amendment to the MTP Act, 1971, increased the gestational limit for termination of pregnancy from 20 weeks to 24 weeks for special categories of women (e.g., survivors of sexual assault, minors, women with disabilities, mentally ill women). It also introduced the requirement of opinion from a Medical Board for termination of pregnancy beyond 24 weeks in cases of substantial fetal abnormalities.	Significantly enhanced women's reproductive rights and bodily autonomy, providing greater access to safe and legal abortion services, especially for vulnerable groups. It aims to reduce unsafe abortions and associated maternal mortality, aligning with global best practices and strengthening the MCH framework.
Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act	2016	This amendment completely prohibited the employment of children below 14 years in all occupations and processes. It also prohibited the employment of adolescents (14 to 18 years) in hazardous occupations and processes. The Act introduced stricter penalties for violations.	Strengthened legal protection for children against exploitation, contributing to their healthy development and access to education. By reducing child labour, it indirectly improves child health outcomes and allows children to benefit from MCH and ICDS services, aligning with Article 39(f) of the DPSP.