Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has announced the implementation of four major Labour Codes aimed at transforming India’s labour ecosystem. These reforms mark one of the biggest overhauls in the country’s employment and social security framework, designed to empower workers, improve workplace safety and simplify compliance for industries.

The newly implemented Labour Codes focus on social security, industrial relations, occupational safety, and wage reforms. According to official information, the aim is to provide stronger protection, transparency and equal opportunities for workers across sectors — including fixed-term employees, gig and platform workers, women workers and migrant labourers.

🔶 Key Features Highlighted

1. Social Security Code

ESIC coverage extended nationwide

Fixed-term employees eligible for gratuity after 1 year

Records and returns completely digital

Women employees get expanded definition of ‘family’ including in-laws

Gig & platform workers receive legal recognition and a dedicated social security fund

🔶 2. Industrial Relations Code

Formal employment strengthened through fixed-term contracts

Wider definition of "worker" including sales promoters, journalists, supervisors

Increased threshold for retrenchment and closure permissions

Mandatory representation of women in grievance committees

Work-from-home legally recognized

Online registration, records, and digital compliance encouraged

🔶 3. Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code

Applicable to establishments with 10+ workers

One License, One Registration, One Return for simplified procedures

Clear definition for interstate migrant workers

Free annual health checkups, 8-hour work limit and mandatory appointment letters

Inclusion of electronic media and entertainment workers within journalist/cinema worker category

Mandatory safety committees in establishments with 500+ employees

🔶 Government’s Vision

Officials stated that these reforms aim to uplift India’s workforce by ensuring timely wages, safer workplaces and increased employment opportunities, particularly benefiting women and young professionals.

The government also highlighted that the simplified compliance structure will boost Ease of Doing Business, increase productivity, support job creation and accelerate India’s journey towards a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).