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The Changing Roles of Trade Unions in India: A Case Study of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Unchahar

Asian Academy of Management Journal

Trade unions are a major component of the system of modern industrial relations in any nation, each having, in their constitution, their own set of objectives or goals to achieve. Change in the political, social and educational environment has seen them rechristened as a ...

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Indian Journal of Industrial Relations

Ernesto Noronha

Journal ijmr.net.in(UGC Approved)

A trade union or labour union is an organization of workers who have banded together to achieve common goals in key areas such as wages, hours, and working conditions, forming a cartel of labour. India has the largest number of trade unions. But they have developed very slowly. In spite of the slow growth, the unions brought about some economic, political and social betterment of the workers. Economically, they have improved the lot of the workers. Politically, the unionism has produced a mighty secular anti-imperialist, anti-capitalist, equalitarian and socialistic force of national economy. Trade unionism has not influenced a variety of industries. The degree of unionisation varies widely from industry to industry. Though trade unions are of various sizes with thousands of members, yet, most of the unions are still characterized by their small size and small membership. Majority of Indian labour is illiterate, ignorant and poor. They are exploited by unscrupulous trade union leaders, which result in the following problems. In a democracy, political influence of trade unionism cannot be avoided. Through this research paper we will discuss about how in India, the historical development of trade-union movement was inseparably intermingled with political movement through liberation struggle due to the 21st Century Challenges in front of the Trade Unions. Keywords: Organization; Common goals; Democ

Simduja Venkatraman

A trade union or labor union is a group of workers having similar interests in the terms of wages, better working conditions, working hours in an organization. The trade unions in India are facing many challenges due to many factors such as politicization, financial issues, lack of government support, etc. Moreover, due to high illiteracy level among the workers, management and other parties have often exploited them. Thus it has become very pertinent for the trade unions to check their operations and improve their efficiency to protect them from extinction. While some trade unions have taken constructive steps to strengthen their position, there is still a lot to be done due to the huge internal and external challenges threatening them.

Dr. Apoorva Mishra

Dr. Nagendra Nath Mahto

Publisher ijmra.us UGC Approved

The present study will be an attempt to examine the various factor which negative the growth of the Trade Union and changing role of trade union inIndia with special reference to Bokaro Steel Plant. Trade union is one of the major components of industrial relation system in India. It is an association of employees to protect their interests and rights. Trade unions are important institutions is a steel plant organization and they play a vital role in providing proper working environment and congenial harmonious industrial relation in the steel plant. Protection of basic human right, especially in developing nations like India forces unionization which is instrumental improving quality life of working class. In this absence of union the employer may become too paternalistic and dictatorial. However, responsible unions play significant role in maintaining cordial relationship with the management. Rapid technological change and play revisions, undoubtedly changes the working conditions and therefore there is change in the role of trade unions. The entry of foreign players due to globalization introduced pro-employer industrial policy, which changed the scenario of trade and the industrial system in India. Apart from their main objective of demand for pay and working conditions, now the trend is that plays key role in encouraging productivity and they are acting as an agent of social welfare.

QUEST JOURNALS

In this paper, thoroughly discussed the origin and development of trade unionism in the world generally and in India particularly. Historically, the origin of labour unions dates back to the eighteenth century and the industrial revolution in Europe, where during this time there was a huge surge of new workers into the workplace that needed representation. The word labour or trade union movement is used synonymously. However, there exists slight difference. Frequently, one can find confusion on the use of the word 'labour movement' and 'trade union movement'. However, there is a slight distinction between the two. Trade unions in India have come a long way since the first organized trade union-the Madras Labour Union, one of the earliest unions, was formed in 1918. India now has more than 84,642 registered trade unions along with an unaccounted number of unregistered trade unions scattered across a large spectrum of industries in India.

Mamta Mohapatra

International Res Jour Managt Socio Human

The Indian Trade Unions Act, 1926 with minor modifications continues to be the main legal instrument for existence, continuance and functioning of trade union industry. The Act has given to Indian trade union movement legal sanctity, social status and organizational coherence hither to unknown. Legally trade unions could no more be regarded as conspiratiorial associations against the established law and order and good government. The code of discipline in Industry 1958 also tried to circumvent the defects of the Act by establishing new norms of human behavior for labour management towards each other to promote industrial democracy and industrial harmony. But the spectrum of public policy as embodied in the Act and in other non-legislative measures with regard to trade unionism continues to e the hall-mark of labor policy. During all these developmental years trade unions in India have come to be dominated by state, political parties and other interests

Industrial Relations

The Year 2001 was probably one of the most eventful periods that the present inhabitants of this world had ever seen. It not only led the world into the next millenium but also brought about transformations into the world political and economic equations. The September 11 attack on the World Trade Centre in New York and the retaliatory attack by the USA on Talibans diverted the world's attention on Afghanistan as well as on India and Pakistans. The following months witnessed not only the flow of the world's prominent leaders, including German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, into South Asia but also policy announcements influencing the region.

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TRADE UNIONISM IN INDIA: AN ANALYSIS OF ITS EVOLUTION, IMPACT, AND CHALLENGES

Published by admin on august 2, 2023 august 2, 2023.

This article is written by Nehal Sharma of 2 nd Year of MIT World Peace University, an intern under Legal Vidhiya.

 This comprehensive article delves into the historical evolution, impact, and challenges of trade unionism in India. The article begins by tracing the early beginnings of trade unionism during the colonial era, highlighting the formation of the first recognized trade union, the “Bombay Mill Hands Association,” in 1890. The role of Mahatma Gandhi in integrating the labor movement into India’s struggle for independence is also explored. Post-independence, the Indian government adopted a pro-labor approach, enacting crucial labor laws like the Industrial Disputes Act of 1947 and the Trade Unions Act of 1926 to regulate industrial relations and promote trade unionism. The impact of trade unionism on workers is examined in detail. Trade unions have played a pivotal role as a collective voice for workers, advocating for better wages, improved working conditions, and social security benefits. Their efforts have established minimum wage laws, working hour regulations, and safety standards, contributing to social and economic equality by fighting against discriminatory practices.

Despite their positive contributions, trade unions face several challenges. Fragmentation along political lines and excessive politicization have led to competing interests and reduced effectiveness. Organizing workers in the informal sector and unorganized labor remains challenging due to the need for formal organization and legal recognition. The effects of globalization and economic reforms on trade unionism are discussed, including job insecurity and the rise of contract labor. Anti-union practices by some employers and delays in resolving labor disputes present further obstacles. To strengthen trade unionism in India, the article suggests adopting a non-politicized and unified approach, extending outreach to workers in the informal sector, and adapting to changing economic realities. Strategies for strengthening trade unionism include investing in capacity building and skill development, collaborating with international labor movements, and advocating for enhanced legal protections.

The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of trade unions in safeguarding workers’ rights and social justice while highlighting their potential to shape a more equitable society for all. It stresses the need for a united and inclusive trade union movement to address the challenges and continue contributing significantly to the welfare of the Indian workforce.

 Trade Unionism, India, Evolution, Impact, Challenges, Workers

Introduction:

 Trade unionism in India has a long and rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The struggle for workers’ rights, better working conditions, and social justice has played a crucial role in shaping the labor movement in the country. Over the years, trade unions have evolved and grown, representing the interests of millions of workers across various sectors. This article explores the historical development of trade unionism in India, its impact on the labor force, the challenges faced, and the way forward.

1. Historical Evolution of Trade Unionism in India

1.1 Early Beginnings

The roots of trade unionism in India can be traced back to the early 20th century when the working class started organizing themselves to protest against unfair labor practices under British colonial rule. The first recognized trade union was the “Bombay Mill Hands Association,” formed in 1890 by N.M. Lokhande primarily focused on demanding better wages and working hours for textile workers in Mumbai.

1.2 The Role of Mahatma Gandhi

During India’s struggle for independence, Mahatma Gandhi brought the labor movement into the freedom struggle. He advocated for workers’ rights and encouraged nonviolent methods of protest to address their grievances. The All-India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) was founded in 1920, becoming the first national-level trade union body, and it played a significant role in mobilizing workers for the independence movement.

1.3 Post-Independence Era

After India gained independence in 1947, the government adopted a pro-labor approach, recognizing the importance of protecting workers’ rights. The Industrial Disputes Act of 1947 and the Trade Unions Act of 1926 were passed to regulate industrial relations and promote trade unionism in the country. Trade unions flourished, and workers’ participation in industrial decision-making processes increased.

2. Impact of Trade Unionism on Workers

2.1 Collective Bargaining Power

One of the primary benefits of trade unionism is its ability to negotiate with employers on behalf of workers. Trade unions act as a collective voice for workers, enabling them to demand better wages, improved working conditions, and social security benefits. Through collective bargaining, workers can exert more influence and achieve concessions that would be difficult to attain individually.

2.2 Workers’ Rights and Welfare

Trade unions have been instrumental in securing workers’ various labor rights and welfare measures. They have played a crucial role in establishing minimum wage laws, working hour regulations, and workplace safety standards. Additionally, trade unions have advocated for providing social security benefits, such as provident funds, medical insurance, and pension schemes, to ensure workers’ economic well-being.

2.3 Social and Economic Equality

Trade unionism has significantly promoted social and economic equality in the Indian workforce. By fighting against discriminatory practices and ensuring fair treatment for all workers, irrespective of gender, caste, or religion, trade unions have played a role in reducing inequality in the labor market.

3. Challenges Faced by Trade Unionism in India

3.1 Fragmentation and Politicization

One of the significant challenges faced by trade unionism in India is the fragmentation of unions along political lines. Several trade unions are affiliated with political parties, leading to competing interests and a need for unified action. This political influence often hampers the effectiveness of trade unions in representing workers’ genuine concerns.

3.2 Informal Sector and Unorganized Labor

The informal sector and unorganized labor form a significant portion of the Indian workforce. Unfortunately, trade unionism has struggled to penetrate these sectors effectively. Due to the lack of formal organization and legal recognition, informal sector workers need help organizing and collectively voicing their demands.

3.3 Globalization and Economic Reforms

The liberalization and globalization of the Indian economy since the 1990s have led to a shift in the dynamics of trade unionism. Economic reforms and privatization have resulted in job insecurity, contract labor, and reduced unionization rates. The increased mobility of capital and the threat of businesses relocating to more favorable locations have made it challenging for trade unions to negotiate effectively.

3.4 Legal Framework and Anti-Union Practices

Despite labor laws and regulations, some employers use anti-union practices to discourage unionization efforts. Workers attempting to organize or participate in strikes may face harassment, threats, or dismissal. The lack of effective enforcement mechanisms and delays in resolving labor disputes further challenge trade unionism.

4. The Way Forward: Strengthening Trade Unionism in India

4.1 Unity and Non-Politicization

To address the challenge of fragmentation, trade unions must focus on unity and solidarity among their ranks. Keeping political affiliations separate from the core objectives of representing workers’ interests is essential. Non-politicization of trade unions will enhance their credibility and effectiveness in advocating for labor rights.

4.2 Inclusivity and Informal Sector Outreach

Trade unions must make conscious efforts to include workers from the informal sector and unorganized labor in their folds. Special provisions and innovative approaches should accommodate these workers’ unique needs and challenges. Awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs can enhance their participation in trade union activities.

4.3 Adapting to Changing Economic Realities

Trade unions must adapt to the changing economic landscape of globalization and technological advancements. They should adopt modern communication methods and utilize social media to connect with a broader base of workers. Additionally, unions need to be proactive in understanding and addressing the concerns of workers in the gig economy and emerging sectors.

4.4 Strengthening Legal Protections

Efforts should be made to strengthen the legal framework for protecting workers’ rights and ensuring effective enforcement of labor laws. Stringent measures against anti-union practices and timely resolution of industrial disputes are crucial for fostering a conducive environment for trade unionism.

5. Role of Trade Unions in Social Movements

5.1. The Struggle for Social Justice

Trade unions in India have focused on workplace issues and actively participated in broader social movements. They have aligned themselves with various causes, such as environmental protection, gender equality, and human rights. By joining hands with civil society organizations and advocacy groups, trade unions have contributed to shaping public policy and societal change.

5.2. Advocacy for Policy Reforms

Trade unions have been influential in advocating for labor-friendly policy reforms. Their engagement with policymakers and participation in tripartite discussions have formulated progressive labor laws and social welfare schemes. Issues like the right to work, social security, and social protection have gained prominence due to the efforts of trade unions.

6. Challenges Faced by Trade Unionism in India

6.1. Fragmentation and Politicization

One of the significant challenges faced by trade unionism in India is the fragmentation of unions along political lines. Several trade unions are affiliated with different political parties, leading to competing interests and a need for unified action. This political influence often hampers the effectiveness of trade unions in representing workers’ genuine concerns.

6.2. Informal Sector and Unorganized Labor

6.3. Globalization and Economic Reforms

6.4. Legal Framework and Anti-Union Practices

6.5. Technological Advancements

Advancements in technology and automation have changed the nature of work in several sectors. The rise of the gig economy and the increasing use of contract labor have made traditional unionization models less effective. Trade unions need to adapt their strategies to cater to the needs and concerns of workers in this new economic landscape.

7. The Way Forward: Strengthening Trade Unionism in India

7.1. Unity and Non-Politicization

7.2. Inclusivity and Informal Sector Outreach

7.3. Adapting to Changing Economic Realities

7.4. Strengthening Legal Protections

7.5. Capacity Building and Skill Development

Trade unions should invest in their members’ capacity building and skill development to equip them with the knowledge and tools required to address the challenges of the modern workforce. Training programs on negotiation, conflict resolution, and communication can empower union leaders to advocate for workers’ rights more effectively.

7.6. International Cooperation

Trade unions can also benefit from international cooperation and collaboration with labor movements in other countries. Sharing best practices, learning from successful models, and building global alliances can strengthen the trade union movement in India.

In conclusion, trade unionism in India has come a long way, and its contributions to workers’ rights and social justice must be supported. However, significant challenges must be addressed to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness in the evolving economic landscape. By fostering unity, inclusivity, and adapting to changing realities, trade unions can continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of the Indian workforce and promoting a more equitable society. Trade unions must adapt to the changing economic and technological landscape while staying true to their core mission of advocating for workers’ rights and social justice. A united and inclusive trade union movement, free from excessive politicization, will be better equipped to tackle the challenges ahead and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous India for all its citizens.

• https://blog.ipleaders.in/explained-evolution-of-trade-unionism-in-india/
• https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/lawpedia/trade-unionism-in-india-46867/
• https://vvgnli.gov.in/sites/default/files/Evolution%20of%20Trade%20Unions%20in%20India.pdf
• https://www.huobi.com/en-us/?utm_source=UT&utm_medium=prodnews&inviter_id=11350560

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Trade Unions – The History of Labour Unions in India

Last updated on December 1, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

In a globalized world, it is equally important to protect the interests of workers along with that of industrialists.

At a time when the Government of India is trying to bring many labor reforms, it is important to know the history of labor unions , popularly known as trade unions .

Table of Contents

What are labor unions or trade unions?

A trade union can be defined as an organized association of workers in a trade or profession, formed to further their rights and interests. In India, Trade Unions in India are registered under the Trade Union Act (1926) .

Trade unions are interested in the economic and social welfare of the workers. Labor unions may also have political interests in the larger society.

Growth of labor unions in India: 6-phases

The growth of the Trade union movement in India was an organic process. It started towards the tail end of the nineteenth century and continues to date. It closely follows the development of Industry in India.

In India, now there are more than 16,000 trade unions with a collective membership of around 1 crore (10 million) laborers.

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The growth of labor unions in India can be roughly classified into six phases.

Pre-1918: The genesis of the labor movement in India

After the setting up of textile and jute mills coupled with the laying of railways in the 1850s, worker atrocities started to come to light.

Though the origin of labor movements was traced to the 1860s, the first labor agitation in the history of India occurred in Bombay, in 1875. It was organized under the leadership of S.S Bengalee. It concentrated on the plight of workers, especially women and children. This led to the appointment of the first Factory Commission, in 1875. Consequently, the first Factories Act was passed in 1881.

In 1890, M.N Lokhande established the Bombay Mill Hands Association . This was the first organized labor union in India .

Following this, different organizations were established across India.

Features of the labor movements in this era:

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• Leadership was provided by social reformers and not by the workers themselves.
• The movements in this era mainly concentrated on the welfare of workers rather than asserting their rights.
• They were organized, but there was no pan-India presence.
• A strong intellectual foundation or agenda was missing.
• Their demands revolved around issues like that of women and children workers.

1918-1924: The early trade union phase

This period marked the birth of the true trade union movement in India. It was organized along the lines of unions in the industrialized world.

The deteriorated living conditions caused by the First World War and the exposure to the outside world resulted in heightened class consciousness amongst the workers. This provided fertile ground for the development of the movement. This period is known as the early trade union period.

Important unions: Ahmedabad Textile Labour Association (1917) led by Smt. Anasuyaben Sarabhai, All India Postal and RMS Association, Madras Labour Union led by B.P Wadia etc.

AITUC , the oldest trade union federation in India was set up in 1920 . It was founded by Lala Lajpat Rai, and Joseph Baptista, N.M. Joshi, and Diwan Chaman Lall. Lajpat Rai was elected the first president of AITUC.

Factors that influenced the growth of the movement:

• Spiraling prices during the War and the mass entrenchment of workers that followed it led to low living standards. Also, the wretched working conditions added to their woes. Hence, they sought collective bargaining power through unionization.
• The development of Home Rule, the emergence of Gandhian leadership, and the socio-political conditions led to the nationalist leadership taking an interest in the worker’s plight. Workers, in turn, were looking for professional leadership and guidance.
• Russian Revolution and other international developments (like the setting up of the International Labour Organisation in 1919) boosted their morale.

1925-1934: Period of left-wing trade unionism

This era was marked by increasing militancy and a revolutionary approach. It also saw multiple split-ups in the movement. Leaders like N.M. Joshi and V.V. Giri were instrumental in moderating the movement and further integrating it with the nationalist mainstream.

AITUC split up multiple times paving the way for the formation of organizations like the National Trade Union Federation (NTUF) and the All India Red Trade Union Congress (AIRTUC). However, the need for unity was felt and they all merged with the AITUC in the next phase.

The government was also receptive to the trade union movement. Legislations like the Trade Unions Act, of 1926 and the Trade Disputes Act, of 1929 gave a fillip to its growth. It bestowed many rights to the unions in return for certain obligations. This period was marked by the dominance of the left. Hence, it may be referred to as the period of left-wing trade unionism .

1935-1938: The Congress interregnum

This phase was marked by greater unity between different unions. Indian National Congress was in power in most of the provinces by 1937. This led to more and more unions coming forward and getting involved with the nationalist movement. In 1935, AIRTUC merged with AITUC. Different legislations were passed by provincial governments that gave more power and recognition to the trade unions.

The approach of Congress ministries was that of promoting worker interests while protecting industrial peace. Reconciliation of labor with capital was seen as an aim, with ministries working towards securing wage rise and better living conditions. However, many ministries treated strikes as law and order issues. They used colonial machinery to suppress it. This led to considerable resentment from the unions.

1939-1946: Period of labor activism

The Second World War lowered the standard of living for the workers further and this led to the strengthening of the movement. The question of the war effort created a rift between the Communists and the Congress. This, coupled with other issues, led to a further split in the movement. However, the movement as a whole got stronger due to the compounding issues. This included mass entrenchment post-war and the massive price rise that accompanied it.

Legislations like the Industrial Employment Act, of 1946 and the Bombay Industrial Relations Act, of 1946 contributed to strengthening the trade union movement. In general, the movements got more vocal and involved in the national movement.

1947-present: Post-independence trade unionism

It was marked by the proliferation of unions. INTUC was formed in May 1947 under the aegis of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel . Since then, the AITUC has come to be dominated by the Communists. Hind Mazdoor Sabha was formed in 1948 under the banner of the Praja Socialist Party. Later on, it came under the influence of Socialists. Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh was founded in 1955 and is currently affiliated with the BJP.

Post-independence, trade unions became increasingly tied with party politics. The rise of regional parties has led to a proliferation in their numbers with each party opting to create its trade union. However, their influence has been somewhat reduced after the liberalization post-1991. Issues like labor code reforms and minimum wage remain a political hot potato due to the opposition from the trade union leadership.

Post-independence, India has also witnessed different unions coming together to address a common issue. These include the crippling railway strike of 1974 and the Great Bombay textile strike, of 1982. However, such strikes are seen to get less public support post-1991. There is also an increased focus on informal labor. This is due to the particularly vulnerable situation of unorganized labor. All major trade unions have registered an increase in their membership from the unorganized sector.

Problems faced by the Labour movement post-Independence

• Uneven growth: They are concentrated in the metropolises, largely catering to the organized sector. Rural Agricultural labor and small-scale labor are grossly underrepresented.
• Low membership: Trade union membership is growing, but the vast majority of India’s labor is not part of any trade unions. This reduces their collective bargaining power.
• Weak financial position : Membership fees are set too low (25 paise) by the Trade Union Act, of 1926. They are particularly disadvantaged against corporate lobbying groups that are flush with cash.
• Political leadership: Careerist politicians and vested political agendas mean that worker interests are sidelined. Since the leadership may not be from the labor force, they are held captive to party politics. This leads to further exploitation.
• The multiplicity of unions: Bargaining power is diluted and it is easy for employers to divert the attention of the labor.
• Inter-union rivalry: There are conflicts of interest and party politics between the unions.
• The problem of recognition: Employers are under no obligation to give them recognition. This means that docile unions get recognition and genuine ones may be sidelined.
• Diverse nature of labor: Most unions don’t have properly differentiated organizational structures to cater to different classes of labor. E.g.: Differences between agricultural, formal, and informal labor.
• Lack of public support: Especially post-1991, trade unionism is looked down upon as an impediment to growth and development. This has led to a general ebbing of the movement across the country.

Major Labour Unions and their Political Affiliation

• All India Trade Union Congress – Communist Party of India.
• Indian National Trade Union Congress – Indian National Congress.
• Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh – Bharatiya Janata Party.
• Centre for Indian Trade Unions – CPI(M).
• Hind Mazdoor Sabha – Samajwadi Party.
• Self-Employed Women’s Association – Unaffiliated.

The Significance of Trade Unions in a Capitalist Society

India’s decisive shift towards market-led growth post-1991 has raised a lot of questions about the role of labor unions. Often, they are seen as an impediment to industrialization and investment. However, their role is indispensable in balancing workers’ interests with those of investors. They also keep a check on the sustainability of business practices, including ethics.

Hence, they play an important role in getting support for worker interests from the larger society. They also mobilize opinions in favor of labor. They are also instrumental in organizing democratic protests and avoiding movements getting overly militaristic. Democratic trade unionism is also a must in avoiding workers coming under the influence of radical and anti-national elements. This is particularly important in the environment of rising socio-economic inequality post-liberalisation.

Ease of Doing Business vs. Competitiveness of the Labour Market

The Government of India is focused on attracting investments by making the nation business-friendly.

India had moved 14 places to 63rd among 190 nations in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Rank 2020 . However, it failed to achieve the government’s target of being at 50th place.

The competitiveness of its labour market is a major area of worry where India is currently ranked 103 out of 141 countries by the World Economic Forum.

Labour Reforms

There are numerous labor laws in India – more than 40. As part of labor reform initiatives, the labor ministry has decided to amalgamate 44 labor laws into four labor codes — on wages, industrial relations, social security and safety, health, and working conditions.

These are a slew of legislation aimed at reforming and simplifying the labor law regime in the country. According to the government, all major labor unions were consulted in the process.

The plan is to replace 44 labor laws that deal with different issues with four comprehensive bills. With this, we will have just four simplified laws in place of these laws.

The New Labour Codes – The Proposed 4 Bills

The new 4 codes will deal with wages, social security, industrial safety and welfare, and industrial relations.

Labour Code on wages

Code on wages will subsume legislations like The Minimum Wages Act, the Payment of Wages Act, the Payment of Bonus Act, and the Equal Remuneration Act. It aims to provide a national floor for minimum wage. It also has provisions to consider regional variations like geography, economy, etc.

Labour Code on Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions

The code on Industrial safety and welfare will replace legislations like the Factories Act, the Mines Act, and the Dock Workers (Safety, Health and Welfare) Act. This will put in place a uniform regime across the nation to ensure industrial safety .

Labour Code on Industrial Relations

The Labour Code on Industrial Relations will combine the Trade Unions Act, of 1926, the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, of 1946, and the Industrial Disputes Act, of 1947. The focus here is to set the stage for the way labor unions can protect labor interests. It also seeks to abolish deadlocks and promote worker welfare while promoting investment.

Labour Code on Social Security

The code on social security will merge important legislations like the Employees’ Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation Act, the Maternity Benefits Act, the Building and Other Construction Workers Act, and the Employees’ Compensation Act

Note: The Labour Code on Wages was approved by Parliament in August while the Labour Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions has been referred to the standing committee on labour.

A vibrant and responsible trade union environment is the requisite for inclusive growth in any economy. It checks the growing inequality and falling living conditions of the working class.

Recent years have seen an erosion of the powers of most labor unions. Though labor reforms are the need of the hour, every reform should strike a perfect balance between labor welfare and investment-led development.

Article by:  Hashin Jithu, curated by ClearIAS Team

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R/ sir kya union act 1996 Ke Adhin Majdur ko verify nhi kr skti Ek A D Haryana me labour Low ko unfolow kr rha h

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