The Central Government has officially enforced four new labour codes—Wage Code 2019, Social Security Code 2020, Industrial Relations Code 2020, and Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code 2020—from November 21. These new laws replace 29 existing labour acts, aimed at simplifying regulations and ensuring a unified labour policy across all sectors. Officials claim that the new framework will enhance worker safety, provide better benefits, and streamline labour administration.
Under the new rules, one of the biggest reforms involves working conditions. Employees will now qualify for paid annual leave after completing 180 working days in a calendar year, instead of the earlier requirement of 240 days. This change is expected to benefit workers in manufacturing, textile, construction, retail, and other labour-intensive industries where attendance rules are traditionally strict. Authorities believe the revision will improve work-life balance, reduce fatigue, and increase employee satisfaction and productivity.
Work hours will continue to remain 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week, but employers now have flexibility in structuring shifts—such as four 12-hour workdays or five 9.5-hour workdays, depending on requirements. The new codes also allow state governments to decide limits on overtime based on regional needs. Additionally, mandatory free annual health check-ups have been introduced for employees above the age of 40, and plantation workers will now have access to ESIC medical facilities previously unavailable. The government states that these provisions are designed to modernize India’s labour system and improve welfare standards for workers nationwide.