Four New Labour Codes

In a major step toward improving working conditions in India, the BJP Government has introduced four new Labour Codes from 21 November 2025. These new laws replace 29 old labour laws and aim to make rules simpler, clearer, and more helpful for workers and employers.

The main goal is to ensure better wages, safety, job security, and social benefits for all workers across India.

Most of India’s old labour laws were written many decades ago, when jobs and industries were very different. The old system had:

• Too many complicated rules
• Different laws for different types of workers
• Confusion for employers
• Limited benefits for workers (The new Labour Codes modernize the system and make it easier to understand and follow.)

The government has introduced these four main laws:

1. Code on Wages, 2019
   Ensures minimum wages for all workers and timely salary payment.
2. Industrial Relations Code, 2020
   Makes rules for job security, strikes, and employer-employee relations clearer.
3. Code on Social Security, 2020
   Brings health insurance, pension, PF, and social security to all workers, including gig and platform workers.
4. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
   Focuses on worker safety, working hours, and health facilities.

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Big Changes That Help Workers

Here’s what improves with the new Labour Codes:

✔ Appointment Letters Are Mandatory

All workers must receive a written job letter—this gives clear proof of employment.

✔ Minimum Wages for Everyone

Every worker will get at least the minimum wage, no matter the industry.

✔ Social Security for All

Workers will now get benefits like:

• Provident Fund (PF)
• ESIC medical benefits
• Insurance and pension
  This includes gig workers and platform workers as well.

✔ Timely Salary Payment

Employers must pay wages on time, reducing financial stress for workers.

✔ Free Health Check-ups

Workers above 40 years must get a free health check every year.

✔ Women Empowerment

Women can now work night shifts (with safety measures and consent).
Equal pay for equal work is protected by law.

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Better Benefits for Different Workers

👷 Contract & Fixed-Term Employees

They will get the same benefits as permanent staff, including gratuity after one year.

📱 Gig & Platform Workers

Companies must contribute to their welfare funds. Benefits will be Aadhaar-linked and usable across India.

🏭 Factory & Hazardous Industry Workers

• Greater safety rules
• Health check-ups
• Strict safety committees

🧑‍💻 IT & Office Workers

Salary must be paid by the 7th of every month.
Strong protection against harassment and wage issues.

🌱 Plantation and Mine Workers

• Improved medical care
• Education benefits for children
• Limits on working hours

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Easier Rules for Businesses

The Labour Codes also make life easier for employers:

• Single registration and single license
• Fewer documents to file
• Less paperwork
• Focus on guidance instead of punishment

This helps businesses grow while still protecting workers.

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A Stronger and Fairer Workforce

Today, over 64% of workers in India are covered by social security, compared to just 19% in 2015. The new Labour Codes take this progress further by:

• Creating safer workplaces
• Providing nationwide benefits
• Supporting women, youth, and migrant workers
• Promoting skill development and employment

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Final Thoughts

The new Labour Codes are a big step toward a modern and fair work system in India. They aim to protect workers, reduce confusion, and build a strong economy. If implemented properly, these reforms can improve lives and strengthen India’s future workforce.

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