Four Labour Codes

Parliament passed four Labour Codes (2019–2020) to consolidate 29 central labour laws. Implementation is staggered and state rules are required. For APFC, know the architecture, key definitions and changed thresholds — not every section.

• Universal minimum wage: a national floor wage by the Centre; states cannot go below.
• IR Code: standing orders threshold proposed at 300 workers; prior permission for lay-off/retrenchment/closure also 300 (vs 100 in ID Act Ch. VB).
• Fixed-term employment recognised; gratuity on a pro-rata basis even for contracts under 5 years under the SS Code.
• SS Code: gig and platform workers defined; aggregators to contribute 1–2% of turnover (capped) to a social security fund.
• National Social Security Board and State Boards for unorganised, gig and platform workers.
• OSHWC: one registration, one licence, one return; inter-state migrant worker definition widened (includes those who migrate on their own).
• Strike notice: 14 days’ notice for all establishments (IR Code), not only public utilities.