The Gujarat government has introduced major revisions to the existing labour framework by issuing the Factories (Gujarat Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. The ordinance, made public by the Labour, Skill Development and Employment Department on July 1, amends core aspects of the Factories Act, 1948, as the Legislative Assembly is not presently in session.
The changes enable factories in the state to extend individual working days to a maximum of 12 hours, an increase from the previous limit of 9 hours. However, the total weekly working time must not exceed 48 hours. This extension is allowed only if the employee submits written consent, and breaks must be included within the 12-hour window.
The revised law permits the state to formally sanction these extended shifts through notification, and now allows up to six consecutive hours of work without interruption, up from the earlier five. Employers are obligated to pay double wages for any overtime performed. The quarterly overtime cap has been increased from 75 hours to 125 hours, again requiring the worker&rsquo;s voluntary agreement in writing.
A notable provision in the ordinance addresses gender-based work restrictions. Women can now be employed for night shifts between 7 pm and 6 am, provided specific safety protocols are in place. Sixteen mandatory safeguards have been outlined, including preventive measures against sexual harassment, sufficient lighting, CCTV surveillance, presence of at least 10 women per shift, deployment of female security staff, and secure transportation arrangements.
Participation in night shifts for women will be entirely voluntary, with written consent required beforehand. The ordinance emphasises that no woman can be compelled to work during these hours.
According to the government, the intent is to foster employment opportunities, support manufacturing operations, and facilitate investment while maintaining essential worker protections.
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Gujarat issues ordinance allowing 12-hour factory shifts and voluntary night work for women workers.

Gujarat Amends Factories Act, Adds Night Shift for Women

Gujarat issues ordinance allowing 12-hour factory shifts and voluntary night work for women workers.

July 3, 2025 | 23:05 IST