Central Government Operationalises Four New Labour Codes: A Major Reform in Workforce Governance

Workforce Modernization: Transitioning from 29 Laws to 4 Simplified Codes

In a landmark move for the Indian industrial sector, the Central Government has fully operationalised the four new Labour Codes by notifying the final rules. These reforms, which replaced 29 legacy labour laws, officially came into effect in late 2025 and are now fully integrated into the official gazette as of May 2026.

The Four Pillars of Labour Reform:

• Code on Wages, 2019: Guarantees minimum wages, timely payment, and ensures equal remuneration for all workers.


• Industrial Relations Code, 2020: Streamlines rules for trade unions, industrial disputes, and provides a structured framework for layoffs and closures.


• Code on Social Security, 2020: Extends universal social security, including PF, pension, and insurance, to both organized and unorganized sectors.


• Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020: Mandates safe working environments, maximum 48-hour work weeks, and welfare facilities.

For TNPSC and D.Pharm aspirants, understanding these codes is essential, especially the provisions regarding Maternity Benefits and Social Security, which are core topics in social justice and industrial health modules.