Has Rajasthan Banned Employment for Children Under 14 in Shops?
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Synopsis
In a significant step towards child welfare, the Rajasthan government has introduced the Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, which prohibits the employment of children under 14 years. This legislation aims to enhance educational opportunities and worker safety while aligning state laws with national standards.
Key Takeaways
- Prohibition of child labor for children under 14 years in shops.
- Apprenticeship age increased to 14 years.
- Night work restrictions for those aged 14-18.
- Extended working hours to improve productivity.
- Enhanced safety measures for women in factories.
Jaipur, Oct 27 (NationPress) The government of Rajasthan has enacted the Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, which prohibits the employment of individuals under the age of 14 in shops and commercial establishments.
The ordinance, endorsed by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, aims to enhance child welfare, ensure educational opportunities, and safeguard the health of minors while aligning state labor regulations with national compliance and safety standards.
The Chief Minister’s Office has stated that these amendments aim to strike a balance between facilitating business operations and protecting workers, consistent with the Union government’s Compliance Reduction and Deregulation Docket.
Key features of the Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025 include the prohibition of child labor.
Children below the age of 14 will be barred from working in any shops or commercial establishments. Additionally, the minimum age for apprentices has been increased from 12 to 14 years.
Restrictions on night work for adolescents have also been introduced, prohibiting individuals aged 14 to 18 from working at night, while enhancing protections for young workers. Furthermore, working hours have been extended.
The maximum daily working hours have risen from 9 to 10 hours, and the quarterly maximum overtime limit has been increased to 144 hours from the previous cap. These adjustments are intended to enhance productivity and operational flexibility while maintaining welfare and health standards for workers.
The previous Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments Act of 1958 permitted adolescents aged 12 to 15 to work a maximum of 3 hours daily, which has now been revised to reflect contemporary welfare and educational priorities. Special provisions for women’s safety have also been incorporated under the Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025.
Amendments to the Rajasthan Factories Rules have been approved by the Chief Minister, expanding employment opportunities for women in specific factory roles while prioritizing workplace safety and privacy.
According to the new regulations, women (excluding pregnant or nursing women) can be employed at designated factory sites.
Employers are now required to supply personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory masks, face shields, gloves, heat shields, and other safety gear. Factories must also ensure safety training for all workers and maintain air quality standards in the workplace. These amendments reinforce the government's commitment to gender inclusion, worker safety, and facilitating business operations, while ensuring compliance with national labor reforms.
Point of View
It is our duty to highlight the importance of protecting children and ensuring their access to education. The Rajasthan government's decision reflects a growing commitment to child welfare and aligns with national labor reforms. This proactive approach is essential for fostering a safe and equitable work environment.
NationPress
27/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025?
This ordinance prohibits the employment of children under 14 years of age in shops and commercial establishments, aiming to enhance child welfare and education.
What age is now required for apprenticeships?
The minimum age for apprentices has been raised from 12 to 14 years.
Are there any restrictions on night work?
Yes, individuals aged 14 to 18 are not permitted to work at night under the new provisions.
What changes have been made to working hours?
The maximum daily working hours have increased from 9 to 10 hours, and the maximum overtime limit has been raised to 144 hours per quarter.
How does this ordinance impact women's employment in factories?
The ordinance expands employment opportunities for women in specific factory operations while ensuring workplace safety and privacy.
