In her inaugural address, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje underscored the transformative nature of codifying 29 labour laws into four comprehensive Labour Codes — a historic reform in 78 years. The Minister emphasized provisions for work-from-home, extension of social security to gig and platform workers, and rationalization of compliances to simplify processes for both workers and employers.
Centre-State Cooperation and Social Security Expansion
Highlighting the importance of cooperative federalism, the Minister called for strengthened coordination between the Centre and States. She urged the expansion of ESIC coverage, last-mile dissemination of Labour Codes provisions, and the promotion of employment generation through PMVBRY in alignment with the Viksit Bharat initiative.
Rajasthan Government Participation
Shri Gautam Kumar Dak, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Department of Cooperation and Civil Aviation, Government of Rajasthan, emphasized the positive impact of Labour Codes at the grassroots level. He highlighted improved worker health and safety measures, and the importance of employer-worker collaboration to resolve disputes constructively.
Digital Readiness and IT Integration
Union Secretary Ms. Vandana Gurnani highlighted the role of IT interventions and digital platforms in effective implementation of the Labour Codes. She called on States to finalize Rules, use Ministry-prepared FAQs and handbooks, and strengthen integration with central IT systems, ensuring compliance, timely wage payments, and social security portability for workers.
Key Deliberations and Capacity Building
The conference featured presentations from senior Ministry officers and State representatives, discussing the preparedness of Rules under the Labour Codes, IT readiness, and institutional mechanisms such as Boards and Funds. The event also focused on capacity building of field functionaries, awareness generation among stakeholders, and seamless implementation of schemes under the Codes.