Archive · 1 Jan 2026
Govt Releases Draft Rules for New Labour Codes
The Indian government has released draft rules for four new labour codes that combine 29 old labour laws.
These rules explain how wages should be calculated, how gratuity will be paid, and who will be on a special board for gig workers.
The rules say workers should not work more than 48 hours a week and need to register with their Aadhaar number.
The government wants people's opinions on these rules before making them final.
Gratuity rules will start from November 21, 2025.
The rules also explain how minimum wages should be set, considering things like food, clothes, housing, and education for a family.
Worker advocates and industry representatives have different opinions on some parts of the rules, like how gratuity should be calculated and the number of working hours.
Draft rules released for four new labour codes, consolidating 29 existing laws.
Public and stakeholder feedback invited within 30-45 days.
Standard 48-hour working week proposed, with Aadhaar-linked registration for unorganised sector workers.
Gratuity to be calculated on last drawn wages, excluding performance-linked pay and other allowances, effective from November 21, 2025.
National Social Security Board proposed for gig and platform workers, including members from various sectors.
- Who
- Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India
- What
- Draft rules for new labour codes
- When
- Feedback period of 30-45 days, Gratuity effective from November 21, 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- To streamline regulations and extend social security coverage
Worker Advocates
Industry Representatives
Gratuity Calculation
Worker Advocates
Gratuity should include all performance-linked pay and allowances to ensure fair compensation.
Industry Representatives
Excluding performance-linked pay and allowances keeps the calculation simple and predictable.
Working Hours
Worker Advocates
A 48-hour working week is insufficient and should be reduced to ensure better work-life balance.
Industry Representatives
A 48-hour working week provides flexibility for businesses and is a reasonable standard.
- Codes Involved
- Code on Wages, Code on Social Security, Industrial Relations Code, Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code
- Feedback Period
- 30-45 days
- Working Week
- 48 hours
- Aadhaar Requirement
- All unorganised sector workers above 16
- Gratuity Effective Date
- November 21, 2025
- National Social Security Board
- Includes members from Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, unorganised workers, employers, state governments, and central nominees
- Minimum Wage Criteria
- Standard working-class family of four, 2,700 daily calories, 66 metres of cloth per year, housing rent, fuel, education, medical, recreation, contingencies
