India’s newly enforced labour codes mark one of the biggest transformations in worker welfare in decades.
According to updates shared by Shreya Goswami, these reforms seek to modernise health, safety, and social security benefits for millions of employees across organised, unorganised, and gig sectors.
The new framework places strong emphasis on health coverage, workplace safety, medical access, and social protection, ensuring employees enjoy stronger security than ever before.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the biggest health-related changes affecting India’s workforce.
1. Expanded Health Coverage Under Social Security Code
One of the most impactful changes is the expansion of Employees’ State Insurance (ESI).
✔ More establishments covered
Companies with fewer employees now fall under ESI, widening health insurance access.
✔ Gig & platform workers included
Delivery partners, ride-hailing drivers, freelancers, and app-based workers can now be part of social security schemes.
✔ Medical benefits for dependents
Family members of insured workers will get enhanced treatment coverage.
2. Stronger Workplace Safety & Health Standards
The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH) Code modernises safety norms across industries.
✔ Mandatory health & safety audits
Factories, warehouses, construction sites and mines must follow stricter standards.
✔ Annual free health check-ups
Empowers early diagnosis and better employee well-being.
✔ Protection for women workers
Safer working conditions, night-shift safety norms, and mandatory facilities.
✔ Improved standards for hazardous industries
Stronger rules for chemical plants, mining, iron & steel, and heavy manufacturing.
3. Enhanced Medical Facilities in Workplaces
The new labour codes mandate:
✔ Onsite medical rooms in units above a specified size
Ensures immediate care in emergencies.
✔ Appointment of qualified safety officers
Specialists oversee accident prevention and health risks.
✔ Mandatory first-aid arrangements
Workplaces must maintain trained staff and safety equipment.
4. Better Social Security for Unorganised Workers
India’s vast unorganised sector finally receives structured protection.
✔ National database for unorganised workers
Registration through e-Shram enables direct benefits.
✔ Access to health & maternity benefits
Schemes like ESI and state insurance can be extended.
✔ Portability of benefits
Workers moving between states can retain health and social benefits.
5. Maternity, Disability & Insurance Protections Strengthened
Women workers and employees with disabilities gain additional safeguards.
✔ Enhanced maternity benefits
Paid leave, creche facilities, and flexible working rights.
✔ Disability benefits
Accident compensation, rehabilitation assistance, and insurance cover.
✔ Equal opportunity policies
Mandatory anti-discrimination norms in recruitment and working conditions.
6. Contract, Fixed-Term & Gig Workers Get Health Security Too
The new codes bridge gaps for workers in flexible roles.
✔ Fixed-term employees
Receive proportional health and social benefits similar to permanent staff.
✔ Contract workers
Protected through licensing, monitoring and compliance rules.
✔ Gig/platform workers
Receive health and insurance benefits through Social Security Funds.
This is a major shift, acknowledging India’s evolving digital workforce.
7. Integrated Framework: One Nation, One Health & Safety Standard
Instead of scattered laws, India now operates under:
One Wage Code
One Social Security Code
One Industrial Relations Code
One Occupational Safety Code
This uniformity ensures every worker—from a factory employee to a delivery rider—gets basic health protection.
Conclusion
The new labour codes provide India’s workforce with a much-needed health and safety upgrade, expanding protection to millions who were previously outside the welfare net.
From stronger medical benefits to safer workplaces and inclusion of gig workers, these reforms aim to create a healthier, more secure workplace ecosystem.
Employees, employers and gig platforms must now adapt to this modern system—one that prioritises health, dignity, and long-term worker well-being.
❓ FAQs
1. What is the biggest health benefit under the new labour codes?
Expanded ESI coverage for organised, unorganised, and gig workers.
2. Do gig workers now get health insurance?
Yes, they can access social security, insurance, and medical schemes through new provisions.
3. Are workplace safety rules stricter now?
Yes, the OSH Code mandates audits, safety officers, medical rooms, and health checks.
4. Will fixed-term employees get the same health benefits as permanent workers?
Yes, they are now eligible for proportional social security benefits.
5. Do dependents get medical benefits too?
Yes, dependents of insured employees receive healthcare access through ESI.
Published on : 24th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Written by: Shreya Goswami