The Government of India has officially announced that all four Labour Codes—the Code on Wages (2019), Industrial Relations Code (2020), Code on Social Security (2020) (#CoSS), and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (2020)—will come into force from 21 November 2025.
This marks one of the most significant labour reforms in independent India, rationalising 29 existing labour laws into a modern, streamlined framework.
The notification reflects the Centre’s intent to create a more contemporary and nationally consistent labour architecture, balancing worker welfare with ease of doing business. The Labour Codes are designed to enhance social security, bring clarity to wage definitions, strengthen workplace safety, and create a unified compliance structure for employers.
Importantly, the government has emphasised that the rule-making process will be fully consultative. The release notes that, just as extensive stakeholder engagement shaped the drafting of the Labour Codes, similar consultations will guide the formulation of rules, regulations, and schemes under each Code.
During the transition period, the government has clarified that all relevant provisions of the existing Labour Acts—including their rules, notifications, standards, and schemes—will continue to remain in force. This is intended to ensure a smooth shift for employers, employees, and state authorities while the new compliance ecosystem is finalised.
The implementation of the Labour Codes is expected to significantly impact wage structures, social security contributions, compliance processes, and workplace policies across sectors, making stakeholder readiness crucial ahead of the 2025 rollout.
See What’s Next in Tech With the Fast Forward Newsletter
Tweets From @varindiamag
Nothing to see here - yet
When they Tweet, their Tweets will show up here.
