The government today unveiled a major set of labour reforms under the new Labour Code, expanding workplace rights for women and strengthening employer responsibilities on safety, childcare, and welfare.
One of the most significant provisions grants women the right to work across all categories of establishments — including sectors where restrictions previously existed. In a key shift from earlier regulations, women workers may now also opt to work night shifts, provided they give explicit consent.
Employers will be legally required to ensure safe working conditions, including transportation, security arrangements, and adequate facilities for women working after normal hours.
“This update modernises labour rules to reflect the realities of today’s workforce,” an official statement read. “It aligns with the constitutional mandate of equal opportunity for all workers irrespective of gender.”
The government noted that the changes are intended to boost women’s labour force participation, which has historically remained low compared to global benchmarks.
Today’s reforms build on earlier amendments, including the 2017 revision to the Maternity Benefit Act, which significantly expanded support for working mothers. The amendment had increased paid maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks—one of the most generous provisions globally—and mandated crèche facilities in establishments employing 50 or more workers.
Under previous labour frameworks, there was no legal requirement for employers to provide free annual health check-ups to workers. The government signalled that future phases of reform may address health, occupational safety, and benefits coverage in a more comprehensive manner.
Industry groups are expected to seek clarity on compliance timelines, especially regarding crèche norms and safety protocols for night shifts. Worker unions, meanwhile, have welcomed the move but urged the government to strengthen enforcement mechanisms to prevent workplaces from bypassing protections.
The reforms mark one of the largest modernisations of Indian labour regulation in decades, aiming to simplify compliance, improve worker protections, and create a more inclusive and flexible labour market.
Further rules and implementation guidelines are expected to be issued in the coming weeks.