AP Labor Minister Vasamsetti Subhash Hails New Central Labor Codes as Historic Reform

AP Labor Minister Vasamsetti Subhash Hails New Central Labor Codes as Historic Reform

Tadepalli, November 24, 2025: In a significant announcement from Tadepalli this Sunday, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Labour, Factories, Boilers & Insurance Medical Services Vasamsetti Subhash expressed strong support for the central government’s four new labor codes. Describing them as historic reforms, the Minister emphasized the coalition government’s dedication to improving the living standards, safety and dignity of workers across the nation.

Minister Subhash outlined the key benefits of the new codes which aim to consolidate complex labor laws into a unified framework that prioritizes worker welfare.

Expanding Social Security Nets

Addressing the Social Security Code 2020, the Minister noted that it integrates nine previous laws to widen the safety net for the workforce. For the first time, social security benefits will extend to the unorganized sector, gig workers and platform workers.
He highlighted the creation of National and State Social Security Boards along with a dedicated Social Security Fund. Under the new rules, EPF and ESIC benefits cover all sectors. A notable change in the ESIC medical services is the inclusion of in-laws as beneficiaries alongside the worker’s parents, spouse and children. Additionally, full ESIC coverage now applies to accidents that occur while a worker is commuting between their factory and home.

Support for women in the workforce has also been strengthened with a provision for 26 weeks of maternity leave and the option for work-from-home arrangements where necessary.

Strengthening Industrial Relations and Wages

Discussing the Industrial Relations Code 2020, Minister Subhash stated that trade unions with 51% membership will now receive statutory recognition. He clarified that fixed-term employees are entitled to the same benefits as permanent staff. To support those facing job loss, a Worker Reskilling Fund will provide 15 days of wages to help them transition. Furthermore, the government has mandated that organizations with over 300 employees must obtain state permission before implementing layoffs.
On the Code on Wages 2019, the Minister asserted that paying below the minimum wage is now strictly prohibited. The code mandates double wages for overtime work and enforces equal pay for men and women to eliminate gender discrimination. He reiterated that timely wage payment is now a statutory responsibility for all employers.

Prioritizing Safety and Working Conditions
Under the Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code 2020, annual health checkups and formal appointment letters are mandatory for every employee. Large establishments are also required to form safety committees.
The code addresses the needs of migrant workers by offering journey allowances and PDS portability. It also brings digital media and dubbing artists under labor protection for the first time.
Regarding working hours, the Minister explained that employees can choose between 8-hour or 10-hour shifts. Women are now permitted to work night shifts provided adequate safety measures are in place, with management bearing the responsibility for their safe transport home. Creches are now mandatory in any organization with more than 50 employees.
Concluding his address, Minister Subhash remarked that the country strengthens only when its workers are strong. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and honoring the labor of every worker in the state.