New Delhi: In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court has recognised homemakers as “nation builders” and ruled that their unpaid domestic work must be given due economic value while determining compensation in motor accident cases.

The court observed that women who manage households and raise families make an invaluable contribution to society and should not be referred to merely as “homemakers”, as the term often fails to reflect the significance of their role.

Delivering the judgment in a motor accident compensation case from Punjab, the apex court held that unpaid domestic work performed by women should be monetised at a minimum of Rs.30,000 per month for the purpose of calculating compensation.

The case arose from a road accident in November 2001 in which a woman lost her life. Following her death, her husband and three children approached the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal seeking compensation.

While hearing the appeal, the Supreme Court emphasised that the work performed by women within households contributes directly to the well-being of families and the development of future generations. The court described homemakers as “nation builders”, acknowledging their role in nurturing children, managing households, and supporting the social and economic fabric of the country.

The judgment is being viewed as a significant step towards recognising the economic value of unpaid domestic labour, a contribution that has traditionally remained invisible in financial and legal assessments.

Legal experts believe the ruling could have far-reaching implications for compensation claims involving the death of homemakers, ensuring a more realistic and dignified assessment of their contribution to their families and society.