New Labour Codes: PHDCCI Seminar Focuses On Wage Rules, Social Security And Compliance

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) held a seminar on the new Labour Codes at PHD House in New Delhi on Thursday.

Participants discussed changes to wage rules, industrial relations, social security, workplace safety and working conditions.

Dr Chandra Bhushan Kumar, Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Employment, said the reforms shift the system towards cooperation between government, employers and workers. He highlighted the consolidation of 29 central laws into four codes, digital compliance processes and uniform return filing.

The four codes cover wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety and working conditions.

Kumar said effective implementation requires coordination with states and continued dialogue with industry. He outlined awareness and training efforts across 316 districts with industrial clusters.

Dr Chandra Bhushan Kumar highlighted work to prepare state labour officials and trainers. He further pointed to plans to connect employment and skills databases through the National Career Service and strengthen protection for gig, platform and unorganised workers.

Rajeev Talwar, Director of Star Wire (I) Ltd and former PHDCCI president, said implementation should promote formal employment, skills, safety and workers’ dignity. He called for greater attention to affordable housing and basic services for migrant workers. He further linked these needs to family welfare and workforce development.

Ashish Wig, Chair of PHDCCI’s HR and IT Committee, proposed a one-year transition period and a dedicated help desk to guide businesses through compliance changes.

Vineet Nahata, Chair of its Economics Affairs Committee, said the codes could extend social security and support industrial relations. He further acknowledged that employers may face higher compliance costs.

Grant Thornton Bharat’s Akhil Chandna reviewed industry preparations, including workforce assessments and compliance-system updates.

PHDCCI CEO Ranjeet Mehta urged practical, sector-specific checklists and training, particularly for MSMEs.

Deputy Secretary General Jatinder Singh stressed clear guidance and continued government-industry consultation.

Technical sessions examined the four codes’ provisions and practical requirements.

Participants concluded that awareness, capacity-building and sustained engagement would help employers adapt while advancing worker welfare and employment objectives.

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