Are the New Labour Codes a Game Changer for India's Workforce?
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Synopsis
The recent overhaul of India's labour laws has been hailed as a monumental step for the working class. With the introduction of four new codes, the government aims to streamline regulations, providing better wages, social security, and workers' rights. This initiative reflects a significant shift in policy, promising benefits for millions.
Key Takeaways
- Four new labour codes replace the previous 29 codes.
- Improved wages and social security for all workers.
- Gratuity eligibility reduced to one year of service.
- Focus on occupational safety and workers' rights.
- Constructive dialogue between government and labour organizations is vital.
New Delhi, Nov 22 (NationPress) The newly introduced labour law reforms mark a pivotal advancement for the working class in India, as stated by the workers' union on Saturday.
The government has transitioned from the previous 29 labour codes to a more streamlined set of four new codes, enhancing the regulatory framework for the workforce.
The four Labour Codes encompass the Code on Wages, 2019, the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.
Girish Chandra Arya, All India Secretary of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), commended the labour codes during a conversation with IANS, expressing appreciation for the Prime Minister and Labour Minister.
Arya characterized the decision as “a crucial development for the working class of the nation.”
“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, long-awaited labour reforms have been enacted, positively impacting millions of workers across the country,” he remarked.
A BMS delegation had previously met with the Union Minister of Labour and Employment, along with the Ministry of Human Resources, to discuss various elements of the labour codes. The organization indicated that many suggestions related to workers' welfare were proposed to the government, with several being integrated into the codes.
“A constructive dialogue between the government and labour organizations is vital for the successful implementation of labour reforms,” Arya emphasized, also highlighting the importance of ensuring workers' rights, safety, and social security.
General Secretary Ravindra Himte informed IANS that the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh will persist in advocating for the interests of workers nationwide and will contribute to the effective execution of the labour codes.
Gopal Krishna Mallik, General Secretary of the Angul Aluminium Mazdoor Sangh in Odisha, affirmed that the alterations in labour regulations will greatly benefit workers.
“These new stipulations will guarantee timely and improved wages, minimum wages for all workers, equal opportunities and pay for women, social security benefits, and complimentary health check-ups,” Mallik shared with IANS.
BMS District President Prashant Kumar Sahu also welcomed the reforms, pointing out a significant provision concerning gratuity.
“According to the new legislation, employees will now qualify for gratuity after just one year of service instead of the previous five years. This will be a substantial advantage for workers,” Sahu told IANS.
Point of View
The recent labour law reforms signify a crucial evolution in India's approach to worker rights and safety. While the changes aim to streamline regulations, it remains essential to ensure that the implementation upholds the interests of workers and fosters a constructive partnership between the government and labour organizations.
NationPress
23/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new labour codes introduced in India?
The new labour codes include the Code on Wages, 2019; the Industrial Relations Code, 2020; the Code on Social Security, 2020; and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.
How will the new labour codes benefit workers?
The new codes aim to ensure timely and enhanced wages, minimum wages for all workers, equal pay for women, social security benefits, and free health check-ups.
What changes have been made regarding gratuity?
Employees will now be eligible for gratuity after just one year of service instead of five years, significantly benefiting workers.
Who has praised the new labour codes?
Girish Chandra Arya, All India Secretary of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, has praised the reforms, recognizing them as a major step forward for India's working class.
What is the significance of these reforms?
These reforms are intended to streamline labour regulations, making them more effective and beneficial for workers, which is crucial for India's economic development.
