On 21 November 2025, India implemented four comprehensive Four Labour Codes, simplifying 29 older laws into a unified framework. These reforms bring major changes for workers across sectors, with several provisions designed especially to empower women.
Key Gains for Women
Night shifts & previously restricted roles now open
Under the new regime, women may work night shifts and take on jobs in sectors or roles that were earlier off-limits, including hazardous work, provided they consent and employers ensure safety, transport and proper working conditions.
The reforms explicitly ban discrimination in hiring, wages and employment terms: if two people of different genders do similar work, they must receive equal pay and treatment.
Expanded maternity & childcare support
Women who have worked at least 80 days in the previous 12 months are eligible for up to 26 weeks of paid maternity leave, including up to 8 weeks before delivery.
Adoptive mothers or commissioning mothers (through surrogacy) are also covered.
Post-delivery benefits also include options for work-from-home (where feasible), and in larger workplaces (50+ employees), employers must provide a crèche and allow regular crèche visits.
Better social security, more formal workforce coverage
The codes extend social security protections, including for contract workers, gig workers and those in unorganised sectors, bringing more people under formal safeguards.
Implementation Matters
While the laws open new possibilities, much hinges on how effectively they are applied — from ensuring transport and safety for night workers, to actual availability of crèches, and timely payouts. Experts and activists note that benefits must reach every woman, across states and sectors, for the reforms to truly transform workplaces.
What This Means- In Short
- For many women, this could mean new career paths, especially in sectors that previously excluded them.
- It promises fair pay, more flexibility, and better support for motherhood.
- It could help bring gig workers, contract staff and informal employees under formal protections and benefits.
If implemented with care, this isn’t just about better laws on paper. It’s about real change: more secure, inclusive and empowered workplaces for women across India.
Further reading on new labour codes