India rolls out simplified labour codes to modernise outdated laws.
India, home to the world’s second-largest workforce, is implementing its biggest labour changes in decades. The government has compressed dozens of laws into four simplified codes.
It says the overhaul will attract investment. This will be vital after US President Donald Trump imposed 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods.
The reforms include minimum wages, equal pay, and expanded social security. But unions say the codes will only strengthen employers’ control and accuse the government of “deceptive fraud”.
So, will the changes increase India’s global competitiveness by streamlining rules? Or could they create new risks for workers and productivity?
Presenter: Adrian Finighan
Guests:
Harshil Sharma – Labour economist who specialises in reforms and welfare
Surbhi Kesar – Senior lecturer in economics at SOAS University of London
Sudip Dutta – National secretary of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions
Published On 3 Dec 2025
