India&rsquo;s four unified labour codes came into force on Friday, bringing sweeping reforms aimed at expanding worker protections, modernising labour regulation and boosting industrial growth.
Under the new provisions, all fixed-term employees will become eligible for gratuity after just one year of continuous service, instead of the earlier five-year requirement. A national minimum wage will now apply across all sectors, replacing the earlier system limited to selected industries.
For the first time, the legislation formally recognises gig and platform workers, defining them as individuals earning outside traditional employer&ndash;employee structures. The reforms arrive at a time when India&rsquo;s gig workforce is projected to rise to 23.5 million by 2030, up from around 10 million in 2024/25.
Employers across industries will now be required to provide free annual medical check-ups for workers aged above 40, ensure timely payment of salaries, and issue written appointment letters to every employee. Fixed-term staff will receive the same benefits as permanent employees, including regulated working hours, paid leave and medical coverage. Salaries in the IT sector must be released by the 7th of every month.
The new codes also allow women to work night shifts and join previously restricted hazardous sectors, including mining, subject to consent and appropriate safety measures. Additionally, firms can extend shift duration and gain more flexibility in layoffs, with the approval threshold raised from 100 to 300 workers.
Replacing 29 older laws dating back to the colonial era, the four codes&mdash;covering wages, industrial relations, occupational safety and social security&mdash;are designed to simplify compliance, strengthen workplace safety, and make India more attractive for global investment.
Overall, the reforms offer companies greater operational flexibility while expanding rights, protections and opportunities for India&rsquo;s workforce.

Gratuity after one year, national minimum wage, medical checks and equal benefits workers

New Labour Codes Reshape Worker Rights

Gratuity after one year, national minimum wage, medical checks and equal benefits workers

November 22, 2025 | 15:33 IST