What the New Labour Codes Mean for India’s Workforce
New Delhi: In a major overhaul of India’s labour framework, the Centre on Friday implemented four new labour codes, replacing decades-old laws with a unified, modern system aimed at strengthening workers’ rights. Announcing the rollout, Labour and Employment Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said the reforms guarantee “dignity, safety, and social security” for every worker in the country.
#WATCH | The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) has welcomed the four new labour codes introduced through historic reforms and has expressed its gratitude to Prime Minister @narendramodi.
BMS National Secretary @GirishArya_bms said that this decision is the biggest reform made in… pic.twitter.com/cG1XPAnVmV
— DD News (@DDNewslive) November 21, 2025
The four laws now in force — the Code on Wages (2019), Industrial Relations Code (2020), Code on Social Security (2020), and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (2020) — promise simpler compliance, wider protection and a more transparent work environment.
According to the Labour Ministry, India’s social-security coverage has seen a dramatic jump over the past decade, rising from just 19% of the workforce in 2015 to over 64% in 2025. The new labour codes, it said, mark the next big leap by ensuring portability of benefits across states and sectors, helping crores of migrant and informal workers.
The Labour Codes usher in a worker-centric era, with universal social security, safer workplaces, health coverage and dignity for every worker, across every sector. A landmark step towards a future where labour welfare is non-negotiable. #ShramevJayate pic.twitter.com/w9NWxY7D7Y
— Ministry of Labour & Employment, GoI (@LabourMinistry) November 21, 2025
Key Benefits Under the New Labour Codes
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Guaranteed minimum wages for all categories of workers
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Mandatory appointment letters for young employees
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Equal pay and enhanced protection for women
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Social security access for 40 crore workers, including those in the unorganised sector
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Gratuity for fixed-term employees after one year of service
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Free annual health check-ups for workers above 40
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Double wages for overtime
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Full health and safety cover for workers in hazardous industries
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Strong alignment with international labour standards
Calling the reforms transformational, the Ministry said the new codes aim to bring fairness, transparency and universal protection, signalling a significant milestone in India’s quest for worker welfare and social justice.
