“Shramev Jayate”: New Labour Codes Take Effect Nationwide

• New framework replaces 29 labour laws with four labour codes from today
• Gig and platform workers brought under social security net for the first time
• Women allowed to work in all sectors with stronger protections and benefits
• PM says reforms empower workers and boost ease of doing business

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Nov: India’s long-pending labour reforms came into force on Friday with the official implementation of all four new Labour Codes, marking what the government calls a major shift towards a modern and inclusive welfare regime for workers across sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the move as “one of the most comprehensive and progressive labour-oriented reforms since Independence.” He said the new system will empower workers while improving ease of doing business.

“Shramev Jayate! Today, our Government has given effect to the Four Labour Codes. It greatly empowers our workers and significantly simplifies compliance,” PM Modi posted on X.

The reforms give legal recognition for the first time to gig and platform workers — including delivery executives and ride-share drivers — bringing them under a dedicated social security fund. Aggregator platforms will contribute 1–2% of turnover, capped at 5% of annual payouts to workers, helping finance insurance, pension and other welfare benefits.

Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said the implementation represents a decisive step toward securing workers’ rights in a rapidly evolving labour market. “These reforms are not just ordinary changes but a major step for the welfare of the workforce,” he said.

In a major relief to delivery and mobility workers, travel-related accidents during commute will now be treated as employment-related, making compensation easier to claim. Further, a universal, Aadhaar-linked account number will allow workers seamless access to benefits across states.

The codes prohibit gender discrimination, ensure equal pay, and allow women to work night shifts and in previously restricted industries with mandatory safety safeguards. Strengthened maternity benefits — including 26 weeks of paid leave, crèche access, work-from-home options and a ₹3,500 medical bonus — are expected to improve workforce participation. Coverage for dependents has also been expanded to include parents-in-law.

The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) has welcomed the reform rollout, calling it a corrective step that expands social protection to millions earlier left outside the formal legal framework, especially in MSMEs and digital-economy jobs.

Passed in 2019–2020 but pending for five years, the four Labour Codes — Code on Wages, Industrial Relations Code, Social Security Code, and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code — now replace 29 fragmented labour laws.

The government says implementation will catalyse employment growth, strengthen worker dignity and safety, and support India’s push toward a globally competitive labour landscape.