India’s Labour Ministry Launches Regional Conference on Labour Reforms
The Ministry of Labour & Employment officially kicked off its fifth Two-day Regional Conference focused on Labour Codes today at the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) Headquarters in New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Labour & Employment, who also delivered a keynote address outlining the importance of collaboration between the Centre and State governments in advancing labour reforms.
Present at the conference were key officials including Ms. Vandana Gurnani, Secretary of the Ministry, and representatives from various States and Union Territories such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Delhi, along with senior officials from EPFO and the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).
Focus on Collaboration and Innovation
In his speech, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the need for a unified approach to labour reforms within India’s federal framework. He pointed out that comprehensive reforms are essential to match the dynamic nature of the economy. The introduction of four Labour Codes in 2019 and 2020 was aimed at aligning India’s labour regulations with international standards and enhancing worker protection.
He highlighted that these Codes, which are set to come into effect on November 21, 2025, have garnered positive feedback from both workers and the business community. The Minister noted that international organizations like the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA) have recognized India’s reform efforts, praising the aim of the Codes to bolster worker security and foster a modern workforce.
Opportunity for Best Practices
Dr. Mandaviya described the Regional Conference as a crucial platform for dialogue between Centre and State representatives, allowing them to share best practices and enhance the implementation of the Labour Codes. He urged States to utilize the Centre’s support in developing robust IT infrastructure and optimizing the e-Shram portal, which aims to streamline benefits distribution to unorganized workers.
He also underscored the potential of North-Eastern States to become key players in industrial growth and employment, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Act East.” Dr. Mandaviya expressed optimism that the conference discussions would fortify the collaboration between levels of government.
A Historic Step in Labour Reforms
Secretary Vandana Gurnani welcomed the participating States and outlined the conference’s framework and objectives. She pointed out that November 21 is a significant date in the journey of labour reforms and highlighted the key provisions of the Labour Codes, such as universal minimum wage and social security, and the requirement for appointment letters for workers.
Ms. Gurnani urged States to finalize Rules under the Labour Codes and introduced a Compliance Handbook designed to simplify understanding of compliance obligations for industries. She emphasized the need for a strong IT system to enable transparent governance and effective execution of the Labour Codes.
The conference featured detailed presentations on current progress regarding the Labour Codes, with discussions on regulatory challenges, implementation strategies, and the role of technology in achieving effective compliance. This event provided an opportunity for mutual learning among States and aimed to enhance awareness of the new labour landscape.
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