Gujarat Expands Women Workforce Access Through New Labour Reform

Historic labour reform in Gujarat

Gujarat Expands Women Workforce Access Through New Labour Reform: The Gujarat Assembly unanimously passed the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing major labour reforms. The Bill replaces an earlier ordinance issued in December 2025 when the Assembly was not in session. The amendment aims to improve workforce participation, especially among women, while maintaining safety standards.

The Bill was introduced by Labour, Skill Development and Employment Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya. It reflects Gujarat’s effort to modernize labour laws in line with changing economic and industrial needs.

Static GK fact: Gujarat was formed on May 1, 1960, after separation from the Bombay State.

Permission for women to work night shifts

A key reform allows women employees to work night shifts between 9 PM and 6 AM, which was previously restricted. This provision expands employment opportunities in sectors such as IT, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing, where night operations are common.

Strict safeguards have been made mandatory for employers. These include written consent of women employees, transportation facilities, restrooms, night crèche facilities, and protection against sexual harassment. Employers must also ensure the dignity, honour, and safety of women workers.

Static GK Tip: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, provides legal protection against workplace harassment in India.

Revised daily working hours regulation

The amendment increases the maximum daily working limit from 9 hours to 10 hours, while maintaining the weekly cap at 48 hours. This ensures flexibility for businesses without compromising worker welfare.

Employees cannot work continuously beyond 6 hours without a mandatory 30-minute break. This provision ensures protection against fatigue and promotes worker health.

Such changes help industries adapt to modern production schedules while preserving labour rights.

Overtime limit increased to support industries

The overtime limit has been increased from 125 hours to 144 hours within three months. However, workers must receive double the ordinary wage rate for overtime, ensuring fair compensation.

This reform benefits sectors facing seasonal demand spikes, such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and export industries. Gujarat is already a major industrial hub, and such reforms enhance operational efficiency.

Static GK fact: Gujarat contributes significantly to India’s manufacturing output and is known for industrial cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara.

Government retains regulatory authority

Despite permitting night shifts for women, the state government retains powers to regulate or prohibit such employment in specific sectors if required. This provision ensures flexibility to respond to public safety concerns or emergency situations.

Such oversight maintains a balance between economic growth and social protection.

Replacing ordinance with permanent legislation

The Bill formally replaces the earlier temporary ordinance, making the provisions permanent law. It was passed unanimously, showing broad political support for labour modernization.

This reform strengthens gender inclusion, labour flexibility, and industrial productivity, making Gujarat a leader in progressive labour governance.

Static GK Tip: Labour is listed in the Concurrent List of the Indian Constitution, allowing both the Centre and States to make labour laws.

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Gujarat Expands Women Workforce Access Through New Labour Reform: