The Ministry of Labour & Employment has brought into force a comprehensive set of four new Labour Codes, effective from 21 November 2025. These reforms mark one of the biggest transformations in India’s labour framework, replacing 29 existing labour laws with a simplified and modern system. --- 📚 The Four Labour Codes Explained 💰 Code on Wages, 2019 Ensures minimum wages for all workers Covers both organized and unorganized sectors Mandates timely payment of wages without discrimination --- 🤝 Industrial Relations Code, 2020 Simplifies rules related to trade unions and industrial disputes Raises the threshold for government approval for layoffs to 300 or more workers Encourages smoother employer–employee relations --- 🛡️ Code on Social Security, 2020 Extends PF, insurance, and social security benefits Covers gig workers, platform workers, and unorganized workers for the first time Creates a foundation for inclusive worker welfare --- 🏭 Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code, 2020 Standardizes workplace safety and health norms Introduces mandatory health check-ups Focuses on safer and healthier working environments --- 🌟 Key Reforms & Worker Benefits ⚖️ Universal Minimum Wages Every worker is entitled to a statutory minimum wage linked to a national floor level 📄 Mandatory Appointment Letters Formal documentation for all employees, ensuring job security and proof of employment 🎁 Gratuity for Fixed-Term Employees Eligibility after just 1 year of service, instead of 5 years earlier 👩‍💼 Women & Night Shifts Women may work night shifts with consent and required safety arrangements 🩺 Preventive Healthcare Free annual health check-ups for workers aged 40 years and above ⏰ Timely Wage Payments Monthly wages to be paid by the 7th Final settlement within 2 working days after exit --- 🏢 Easier Compliance for Employers 🧾 Single-Window System One registration, one license, and one return to reduce paperwork 🤝 Inspector-cum-Facilitator Model Officials focus on guidance and compliance support, not just penalties ⚖️ Decriminalization of Minor Offences First-time or small violations can be resolved through monetary penalties instead of imprisonment --- 🔍 A Step Toward Balanced Growth These labour reforms aim to strike a balance between worker protection and ease of doing business, creating a transparent, flexible, and growth-oriented labour ecosystem for India’s future. ✨ A unified framework designed for dignity, security, and productivity in the modern workforce.