The Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE) on December 30, 2025, issued the Draft Code on Wages (Central) Rules, 2025.
The following has been stated namely: -
• The Draft Rules lay down the procedure for fixation and revision of minimum wages, including norms for skill categories, geographical areas, and cost-of-living index, in accordance with the Code on Wages, 2019.
• They prescribe detailed provisions for payment of wages, timelines for payment, and modes of disbursement to ensure transparency and timely compliance by employers.
• The Rules operationalise the uniform definition of “wages”, incorporating the 50% cap on allowances, with excess amounts to be added back for statutory calculations.
• They also provide mechanisms for claims, recovery of dues, and appointment of authorities to adjudicate wage-related disputes.
• Further, the Draft Rules outline the framework for inspections-cum-facilitators, digital maintenance of records, and employer compliance obligations.
• Penalties and procedural safeguards are specified to ensure effective enforcement and worker protection under the Code.
• Objections and suggestions, if any, may be addressed to Shri Nitesh Bhasin, Under Secretary ([email protected]), Government of India, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Shram Shakti Bhawan, Rafi Marg, New Delhi-110001, by February 14, 2026.
[Notification no. - G.S.R. 936(E)]
