Labor Laws and Worker Rights — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

For Prelims, a meticulous approach to Labor Laws and Worker Rights is essential. Begin by thoroughly understanding the constitutional provisions: Articles 14, 16, 19(1)(c), 21, 23, 24 (Fundamental Rights) and 39, 41, 42, 43, 43A (DPSPs).

Focus on the core essence of each article and its direct relevance to labor. Memorize the key numbers: 44 old laws consolidated into 4 new codes. For each of the four codes (Code on Wages 2019, Industrial Relations Code 2020, Social Security Code 2020, OSHWC Code 2020), identify their primary objectives, the major old laws they subsumed, and 2-3 unique, distinguishing features (e.

g., National Floor Wage for Wages Code, 300-worker threshold for IR Code, gig worker definition for Social Security Code, 10-worker threshold for OSHWC Code). Pay close attention to definitions like 'worker', 'employee', 'gig worker', 'platform worker'.

Understand the significance of landmark judgments like *Bandhua Mukti Morcha* and *PUDR v. Union of India*, focusing on which constitutional articles they interpreted and their key holdings. Keep track of recent government initiatives like the e-Shram portal, PM-SYM, and any significant state-level developments.

Practice MCQs that test factual recall, comparative analysis between codes, and constitutional linkages. Create flashcards for article numbers, code names, and their key provisions. A strong emphasis on 'what' and 'which' will be beneficial.