CENTRE NOTIFIES FOUR NEW LABOUR CODES

NEWS – The Central government has officially implemented all four Labour Codes, marking one of the most significant labour reforms since Independence. These Codes replace 29 fragmented labour laws, some dating back to the 1930s.

HIGHLIGHTS

Overview of the Four Labour Codes

• Code on Wages, 2019
• Industrial Relations Code, 2020
• Code on Social Security, 2020
• Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSHWC) Code, 2020

Key Objectives

• Simplify labour regulations
• Ensure universal social security
• Improve working conditions
• Increase compliance efficiency

 Major Provisions and Reforms

1. a) Social Security & Gig Economy

• First-time statutory recognition of gig workers, platform workers, and aggregators.
• Extension of ESIC coverage pan-India, including hazardous industries.

1. b) Worker Welfare & Safety

• Free annual health check-up for workers over 40 years.
• National OSH Board to harmonise safety standards.
• Single registration, licence, and return system to reduce compliance burden.

1. c) Wage and Employment Reforms

• National floor wage to ensure minimum income protection.
• Fixed-term employment with benefits equal to permanent employees (leave, medical, social security).
• Statutory backing for minimum wages across sectors.

1. d) Women’s Workforce Participation

• Enhanced rights and safety for women, including permission for night-shift work with safeguards.
• Promotion of gender-neutral workplaces and pay parity.

Way Forward

• Government to begin consultations for framing detailed rules and schemes.
• Implementation success will depend on coordination with States and stakeholder acceptance.