The conflict of work and childcare for mothers compels them to remain out of the labour market. It is time for fresh dialogue on this. The Supreme Court recently issued a directive to the state of Himachal Pradesh in response to the case of Shalini Dharmani vs. The State of Himachal Pradesh. This directive has sharply turned the spotlight towards the disproportionate childcare burden shouldered by women, urging Indian policymakers to take decisive steps towards enhancing childcare infrastructure and bolstering support for working mothers.