The Maternity Benefit Act of 1948 aims to regulate women's employment during pregnancy and provide maternity benefits. It provides for 84 days of paid maternity leave, a medical bonus of Rs. 1,000, and additional benefits like nursing breaks and protection from dismissal. To be eligible, a woman must have worked for at least 80 days in the previous 12 months. The document outlines the conditions for claiming benefits, specific benefits provided under the Act like paid leave and medical bonus, and penalties for non-compliance.