Centre Introduces 3 Key Labour Codes in Lok Sabha, Says it Will Extend Social Security to All Workers

A statutory right has been created for minimum wages and timely payment of wages to all workers whether in the organised or unorganised sector. It extends entitlement of minimum wages to all the workers in the country as against 30 per cent of the workforce, at present.

The number of minimum wage rates around the country has been reduced to 200. Earlier there were 10,000 rates.

At present, minimum wages are fixed for employment covering mainly mines sector, plantation, dock workers, building and construction workers, watch and ward, sweeping and cleaning and on manufacturing sector etc. The extension will encompass the service sector (IT, hospitality, transportation etc.), domestic workers, unorganised workers and teachers.

The codes will give powers to state governments on rules related to hiring, retrenchment and work hours in their factories and establishments while restricting powers of the workers to form unions. Besides, it will ensure the government extends social security to all, including the unorganised and gig workers in a phased manner.