New Labour Codes Enhance Protections for All Workers
The Central Government has taken a significant step towards bolstering worker rights in India by implementing four new Labour Codes. Effective from November 21, 2025, these codes are designed to improve protections for both organized and unorganized workers across the country. The codes encompass essential provisions regarding wages, social security, and working conditions, aiming to create a more equitable work environment.
Key Provisions of the Labour Codes
The new Labour Codes introduce several critical measures to safeguard workers’ rights. Firstly, every worker will have a statutory right to minimum wages along with the assurance of timely payment. This marks a substantial enhancement in wage security for all employees.
Additionally, the government aims to universalize social security by extending coverage to both organized and unorganized workers, including those in gig and platform jobs. This is a landmark change, ensuring that a broader segment of the workforce can access essential social benefits.
For larger workplaces, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) will now be mandatory for establishments with more than ten employees. Smaller setups can opt for voluntary coverage, even allowing for single-employee operatives in hazardous industries to obtain insurance benefits.
Expanding Safety and Opportunities
The Labour Codes also expand the applicability of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to all businesses employing 20 or more workers, thereby universalizing its coverage. Furthermore, a newly established Social Security Fund will be dedicated to creating schemes that specifically assist unorganized workers and those in the gig economy.
Ensuring safe working conditions is another priority under these codes, which include provisions for annual health check-ups and the issuing of appointment letters to all employees. Moreover, a Workers’ Re-Skilling Fund is now available for workers who find themselves retrenched due to various circumstances.
Importantly, the regulations now permit women to work in all sectors and at night, provided they consent and their safety is assured. This move paves the way for greater gender equality in the workplace.
Improved Rights for Migrant Workers
The definition of Inter-State Migrant Worker has also been broadened to include those employed by contractors and self-migrated workers. These individuals will now receive an annual travel allowance and benefit portability, enhancing their rights significantly.
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