The group is offering to pay female employees’ expenses for fertility treatments, such as IVF as well as freezing eggs, embryo and sperm, and artificial insemination.

IHCL is also launching an enhanced incentive scheme for Taj employees who recommend female candidates for a role with the company. If these women are hired, then referral commission will be paid at a 30-50% higher rate than for male candidates.

Dr P V Murthy, global head - human resources for IHCL, said: “We have been consistent in championing the cause for women. The extension of medical benefits and the women referral programme is in line with our commitment to encourage women for diverse roles in the company.”

The company, which operates 144 hotels around the world, already offers seven months of paid maternity leave with the option to extend this by a further three months.

Having creche facilities is also compulsory across IHCL’s properties.