The Supreme Court of India recognizes homemakers’ domestic work as a substantial economic contribution and orders that the loss of such care be compensated as a separate head of damages in motor accident claims. In the ruling reported by multiple outlets, the court holds that a homemaker’s domestic services—such as managing household needs that support family wellbeing—must be monetised while assessing compensation. The court fixes a notional monthly income of ₹30,000 for this purpose.
The bench also addresses timelines and payment consequences. As described in one report, when compensation is not paid within three months, the interest rate increases to 9%, and after six months it rises further to 12% per annum. Another report frames the decision in terms of broader social and economic value, describing homemakers as “nation builders” and linking their work to the building of human capital.
The reports also refer to the court’s broader handling of multiple accident compensation cases, including a set of 123 matters associated with a bench led by Justice Sanjay Karol.
