8 months ago
Labour Codes to Boost Women's Workforce Participation in India
A new report says that India's labour codes, which will start in November 2025, can help more women join the workforce.
The report explains that these new rules make jobs safer and more secure for women.
It also mentions that the number of women working has gone up from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24.
The report talks about laws that help women, like the Maternity Benefit Act and the law against sexual harassment at work.
It also says that the new rules will make it easier for women to work in different sectors, including night shifts, if they want to and if it's safe.
The report also says that these changes will only work if employers follow the rules and the government supports them.
Labour Codes effective from November 21, 2025, aim to boost women's workforce participation in India.
Female labour force participation rate rose from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24.
Labour Codes modernize employment laws, making workplaces safer and social security broader for women.
Key provisions include 26 weeks of paid maternity leave and expanded social security coverage for gig workers.
The report emphasizes the need for effective implementation of the labour codes to achieve their full potential.
- Who
- All India Organisation of Employers (AIOE) and Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas
- What
- Release of a white paper on the impact of labour codes on women's workforce participation
- Where
- India
- When
- Report published on December 13, 2025; Labour Codes effective from November 21, 2025
- Why
- To highlight how the labour codes can make employment safer, more secure, and more accessible for women
Key facts
- Effective Date
- November 21, 2025
- Female Labour Force Participation Rate (2023-24)
- 41.7%
- Maternity Leave
- 26 weeks for eligible employees, 12 weeks for adoptive and commissioning mothers
- Organizations Involved
- All India Organisation of Employers (AIOE) and Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas
- Key Laws Mentioned
- Maternity Benefit Act, 1961; Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013
- Government Initiatives
- Mission Shakti, NAVYA, WISE-KIRAN
- Report Publication Date
- December 13, 2025
