New Delhi: India’s decision to bring its four Labour Codes into effect has drawn praise from leading global organisations, with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA) describing the reforms as an important step toward strengthening social protection and modernising labour governance.
The endorsements, issued a day after the Government of India announced the implementation timeline, signal growing international support for India’s shift toward a more formalised, inclusive and welfare-oriented labour framework.
ILO Director-General Highlights Focus on Social Protection and Minimum Wages
The Director-General of the International Labour Organization said he was “following with interest” India’s rollout of the new Codes, noting their emphasis on expanding social protection and reinforcing minimum wage systems.
He stressed that tripartite social dialogue would be central to the success of the reforms.
“Social dialogue among government, employers and workers will remain essential as reforms are implemented to ensure they’re positive for workers and business,” he said in a social media post, underlining the need for consensus-building as India transitions to a new labour regime.
ISSA Says India Adds Momentum to Global Social Security Drive
The International Social Security Association (ISSA) also welcomed the move, calling India’s step a “milestone” that aligns with worldwide efforts to expand social security.
“India’s Labour Codes add momentum to global efforts for stronger, more inclusive social security systems,” ISSA said in a statement on X. The association encouraged India to maintain investments in social protection coverage, institutional capacity and long-term sustainability.
