India’s New Labour Codes 2025 have reshaped workplace regulations, introducing flexibility in working hours while safeguarding employee welfare. The new framework caps weekly working hours at 48 hours, allowing options such as a 4-day workweek with 12-hour shifts or a 6-day schedule with 8-hour shifts. This blog explores the weekly working hour limit under the Labour Codes, its implications for employers and employees, and compliance requirements to ensure lawful and productive workplaces.
Key Provisions on Working Hours
Weekly Limit
- Maximum 48 hours per week across all sectors.
- Employers can structure schedules as 4, 5, or 6-day workweeks, provided the cap is respected.
Daily Hours
- Up to 12 hours per day allowed in a 4-day workweek.
- Standard 8-hour shifts remain for 6-day schedules.
Overtime
- Overtime capped at 125 hours per quarter.
- Must be paid at double the regular wage rate.
Rest Between Shifts
- Mandatory 12-hour rest period between two shifts.
- Weekly off required after 48 hours of work.
Women Workers
- Women can work night shifts with mandatory safety provisions, expanding opportunities across industries.
Employer Compliance Checklist
- Align shift schedules with the 48-hour weekly cap.
- Update HR policies to reflect overtime compensation rules.
- Ensure 12-hour rest periods between shifts.
- Provide weekly off days and maintain digital records.
- Implement safety measures for women working night shifts.
Employee Rights Snapshot
- Cannot be compelled to work beyond 48 hours per week.
- Entitled to double pay for overtime.
- Guaranteed weekly off and rest between shifts.
- Women workers gain expanded rights with safety protections.
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Disclaimer – This blog post is a general guide. It should not be considered legal advice. Consult a legal professional for more details.