India has ushered in a new labour era, consolidating 29 laws into four codes. This aims for simplified compliance for employers and expanded protectio

While the Codes overhaul 29 separate laws into a single structure, their provisions carry specific implications for mine workers, employees in hazardous environments, and textile-sector labourers, including migrants.

The new labour codes are expected to benefit crores of workers and employees by offering stronger protection, though they may also increase compliance responsibilities for employers. The updated codes—Code on Wages,

The unions argue that while the government has framed the codes as a simplification exercise, they also enable easier hiring and firing and weaken several long-standing safeguards

The Government merged 29 labour laws into four codes to enhance business ease and worker rights. Key provisions include equality for women, gratuity for fixed-term employees, and health check-ups for workers,

The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (OSH), 2020, which is among the four Labour Codes made effective from November 21, 2025, is enacted to consolidate and simplify the existing complex web of labour laws.

The reforms are designed to protect workers’ rights, improve safety and social security, and create additional employment opportunities

The goal of new reform is to make business processes smoother, improve worker welfare, update outdated rules, and create a more transparent and worker-friendly labour system.