New Delhi: India has officially brought four new labour codes into force from 21 November, replacing and rationalising 29 older laws in what the government calls a landmark overhaul aimed at ensuring “dignity for every worker”, especially women.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment said the updated framework modernises regulations that were originally crafted in the 1930s–50s, addressing gaps in wages, safety, social security and workplace equality. The four codes now in effect are:

  • Code on Wages, 2019
  • Industrial Relations Code, 2020
  • Code on Social Security, 2020
  • Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020

Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya hailed the rollout as a major step towards a “self-reliant” and “developed” India by 2047.

What the new labour codes promise for women?

The reforms introduce several measures aimed at improving opportunities, safety and equality for women in the workforce:

  1. Night-time work permitted across sectors: Women can now work night shifts — including in heavy machinery and underground mining — with mandatory written consent and necessary safety measures.
  2. Equal pay and anti-discrimination: Gender discrimination is explicitly prohibited, and “equal pay for equal work” is ensured.
  3. More job opportunities: Women are expected to access higher-paying roles traditionally limited to men, especially in manufacturing and export sectors.
  4. Mandatory representation: Grievance redressal committees must include women members.
  5. Expanded family definition: Parents-in-law are now included as dependents for female employees, enabling wider social security coverage.
  6. Safer working conditions: Employers must provide secure transport, CCTV surveillance, and security staff for night-shift workers.
  7. Double wages for overtime: Women opting for additional hours will receive twice the regular wage rate.

Why the new labour codes were implemented?

The government said India’s older labour laws were designed for a different economic era. The new codes aim to streamline compliance, boost formal employment, and expand worker protection to millions in the informal, gig and platform sectors.

Snapshot of major guarantees

  1. Timely minimum wages for all workers.
  2. Appointment letters mandatory for all employees.
  3. Equal pay & respect for women with safe night-shift provisions.
  4. Social security for 40 crore workers, including gig and platform workers (PF, ESIC, insurance).
  5. Gratuity after one year for fixed-term and contract workers (reduced from five years).
  6. Free annual health check-ups for workers above 40.
  7. Double wages for overtime, regulated working hours, and paid leave.
  8. 100% health protection in hazardous industries via a National OSH Board.
  9. Mandatory safety committees in establishments employing over 500 workers.