Labour Code Reforms — Policy Reforms

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
Code on Wages, 2019 (Consolidation)	2019	This Code consolidated and replaced four existing laws: The Payment of Wages Act, 1936; The Minimum Wages Act, 1948; The Payment of Bonus Act, 1965; and The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976.	Introduced a uniform definition of 'wage', established a national floor wage, ensured timely payment, and prohibited gender-based wage discrimination across all sectors, significantly simplifying wage-related compliance.
Industrial Relations Code, 2020 (Consolidation)	2020	This Code consolidated and replaced three existing laws: The Industrial Disputes Act, 1947; The Trade Unions Act, 1926; and The Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946.	Increased thresholds for standing orders and government permission for retrenchment/closure (from 100 to 300 workers), introduced fixed-term employment, and mandated a 60-day notice for strikes/lockouts, aiming for greater labour market flexibility and streamlined dispute resolution.
Code on Social Security, 2020 (Consolidation)	2020	This Code consolidated and replaced nine existing laws related to provident fund, ESI, gratuity, maternity benefit, and unorganised workers' social security.	Aimed for universal social security coverage, explicitly included gig and platform workers for the first time, rationalized EPF/ESI provisions, and reduced gratuity eligibility for certain workers, expanding the social safety net.
Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (Consolidation)	2020	This Code consolidated and replaced thirteen existing laws related to factory safety, mines, dock workers, contract labour, and inter-state migrant workers.	Standardized safety and health standards, working hours, and leave provisions across various sectors. Allowed women to work night shifts with consent and safety, and introduced the 'inspector-cum-facilitator' role, aiming for comprehensive workplace safety and welfare.