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ARTICLE · 10 DECEMBER 2025

Labour Codes Implemented - A Landmark Reform

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP
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On 21 November 2025, the Government of India (GOI) announced the immediate implementation of four major pieces of labour legislation: Code on Wages, 2019 (Wage Code); Industrial Relations Code...

IndiaEmployment and HR
Fatim Jumabhoy
Fatim Jumabhoy
Wei-Liang Chan
Wei-Liang Chan
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On 21 November 2025, the Government of India (GOI) announced the immediate implementation of four major pieces of labour legislation: Code on Wages, 2019 (Wage Code); Industrial Relations Code, 2020 (IR Code); Code on Social Security, 2020 (Social Security Code); and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSH Code).

Collectively referred to as the Labour Codes, these reforms represent one of the most significant changes in India's employment law framework in decades. All four Codes became effective on 21 November 2025 (Effective Date), although certain provisions within some Codes will be operationalised in phases.

Background and Legislative Framework

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