Labour Reforms Explained: No, India Hasn’t Made 12-Hour Workdays Mandatory

What’s the Truth Behind the 12-Hour Workday Claim?

The buzz around India’s labour reforms 2025 has triggered confusion. Many believe the government has fixed 12-hour workdays as the new norm. That’s not true.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has clarified:

• The weekly limit remains 48 hours.
• Employers can offer 4-day workweeks with 12-hour shifts, but only if employees agree.
• The 12 hours include breaks and spread-over time.
• Overtime beyond daily limits must be paid at double the wage rate.

What Changed in the New Labour Codes?

India replaced 29 outdated labour laws with four simplified codes:

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1. Code on Wages, 2019
2. Industrial Relations Code, 2020
3. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
4. Social Security Code, 2020

These reforms aim to:

• Improve transparency and compliance.
• Offer flexibility to employers and employees.
• Align India’s labour laws with global standards.

Can You Work Just 4 Days a Week Now?

Yes, but only under specific conditions.

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• Employers may offer 4-day workweeks with longer shifts.
• Employees must consent to this arrangement.
• The total weekly hours must not exceed 48 hours.
• The remaining 3 days are paid rest days.

This model is inspired by global trends in countries like Japan, Spain, and Germany.

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What About Overtime and Worker Rights?

• Overtime is voluntary, not mandatory.
• Workers earn double pay for extra hours.
• Employers must maintain records of working hours.
• Violations can attract penalties under the new codes.

Trending Queries Around Labour Reforms

• Is 12-hour workday compulsory in India now?
• What is the new 4-day workweek policy?
• How does overtime work under the new labour codes?
• What are the benefits of the new labour laws?
• Are Indian labour reforms employee-friendly?

External Links

• Ministry of Labour and Employment – Govt of India
• Press Information Bureau – Labour Code Clarification
• Wikipedia – Labour Law in India
• Times Now – Labour Ministry Explains 4-Day Week
• DNA India – Fact Check on 12-Hour Workday

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Vishnu Kumar

Vishnu Kumar M is a Senior Journalist, Digital Strategist, and Educational Mentor with over 26 years of experience across print, electronic, and digital media. A B.Com graduate with a PG Diploma in Journalism, he has shaped national and international narratives through field reporting, editorial leadership, and content strategy. His expertise spans politics, finance, health, and education. As a trusted mentor, Vishnu delivers verified updates to students and job seekers via his platforms and apps. Known for clarity and credibility, he continues to inform and empower millions across India.

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