New Labour Code Rules Offer Optional Four-Day Work Week in India
The newly notified Code on Wages (Central) Rules in India provide employers with the optional framework to implement a four-day work week, accompanied by three fixed days off. This arrangement is not mandatory but offers flexibility for organizations willing to adapt. To qualify, employees must explicitly agree to the condensed schedule, which typically involves extending daily working hours to 12 hours to meet the statutory limit of 48 weekly working hours. These long shifts include mandated breaks and rest periods as per state laws. Any work performed beyond this 12-hour daily or 48-hour weekly threshold entitles employees to overtime pay at twice their regular wage rate. Legal experts suggest that knowledge-based sectors such as IT, ITES, and creative services are well-suited for this model. Conversely, industries like healthcare, hospitality, retail, and manufacturing face significant challenges due to operational continuity needs and health regulations restricting long shifts. The provision aims to modernize labor practices while ensuring worker protection through strict consent and compensation requirements.
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New Labour Code Rules Offer Optional Four-Day Work Week in India
The newly notified Code on Wages (Central) Rules in India provide employers with the optional framework to implement a four-day work week, accompanied by three fixed days off. This arrangement is not mandatory but offers flexibility for organizations willing to adapt. To qualify, employees must explicitly agree to the condensed schedule, which typically involves extending daily working hours to 12 hours to meet the statutory limit of 48 weekly working hours. These long shifts include mandated breaks and rest periods as per state laws. Any work performed beyond this 12-hour daily or 48-hour weekly threshold entitles employees to overtime pay at twice their regular wage rate. Legal experts suggest that knowledge-based sectors such as IT, ITES, and creative services are well-suited for this model. Conversely, industries like healthcare, hospitality, retail, and manufacturing face significant challenges due to operational continuity needs and health regulations restricting long shifts. The provision aims to modernize labor practices while ensuring worker protection through strict consent and compensation requirements.
Economic Times