Four labour codes come into effect: What it means for women, youth, and gig workers

India on Friday implemented the four key labour codes – the Code on Wages, 2019, the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 – in a move that is being hailed as the biggest workforce reform since Independence.

The Government has termed the implementation of the four labour codes a “historic decision”, saying the reforms rationalise the 29 central labour laws, expand the social security cover of millions of employees, and simplify the pre-Independence regulatory system.

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Calling the new labour regime “one of the most comprehensive and progressive labour-oriented reforms” since 1947, Prime Minister Modi said the decision will greatly empower the workers and promote ‘Ease of Doing Business’.

The four labour codes, which come into effect today, November 21, 2025, have something for all. From enhanced rights and workplace safety for women to expanded social security for gig and platform workers, the reforms are expected to benefit all sections of the workforce.

For gig and platform workers

For the first time, ‘Gig work’, ‘Platform work’, and ‘Aggregators’ have been legally defined.

The new labour codes make it mandatory for aggregators to contribute 1–2 per cent of the annual turnover, capped at 5 per cent of the payout to gig and platform workers.

Aadhaar-linked Universal Account Number will make welfare benefits easy to access, fully portable, and available across states, regardless of migration.

For contract workers

Fixed-term employees (FTE) will increase employability and ensure social security, and legal protection like benefits equal to permanent employees.

Fixed-term employees will become eligible for gratuity after one year of continuous service.

Principal employer will provide health benefits and social security benefits to contract workers.

Workers to get free annual health check-up.

For women workers

Gender discrimination has been legally prohibited and equal pay for equal work has been ensured for women.

Women are permitted to work night shifts and in all types of work (including underground mining and heavy machinery), subject to their consent and mandatory safety measures.

Mandatory women’s representation in grievance redressal committees.

Provision to add parents-in-law in the family definition of female employees, expanding dependent coverage and ensuring inclusivity.

For youth workers

All workers to get appointment letters, promoting social security, employment history, and formal employment.

Exploitation of workers by their employers is prohibited, and payment of wages during leave has been made mandatory.

Wages will be given as per the floor wage determined by the Central Government.

For MSME Workers

All MSME workers covered under the Social Security Code, 2020, eligibility based on employee count.

Minimum wage guaranteed for all workers, who will also have access to facilities such as canteens, drinking water, and rest areas.

There are also special provisions for standard working hours, double overtime wages, and paid leave.

For Beedi & Cigar Workers:

Minimum wages have been guaranteed for all, and working hours have been capped at 8–12 hours per day and 48 hours per week.

Overtime work beyond prescribed hours to be consent-based and paid at least double the normal wage rate.

Workers eligible for bonus after completing 30 days of work in a year.

For Audio-Visual & Digital Media Workers:

Digital and audio-visual workers, including journalists in electronic media, dubbing artists, and stunt persons, will now receive full benefits.

Mandatory appointment letter for all workers – clearly stating their designation, wages, and social security entitlements.

Overtime work beyond prescribed hours to be consent-based and paid at least double the normal wage rate.