Bizprout Compliance Updates – January 2026

Minimum Wages

Chandigarh - The Government of Chandigarh vide No.ST/(CPI)/2025-26/4856 has issued notification regarding revision of minimum wages for various scheduled employment with effect from 1st Oct 2025.

Punjab - The Government of Punjab Vide No.ST/24110 has issued notification regarding revision of minimum wages for various scheduled employment with effect from 1st Sep 2025.

Andaman And Nicobar - The Government of Andaman And Nicobar vide Order No.473 has issued notification regarding revision of minimum wages for various scheduled employment with effect from 1st Jan 2026.

Odisha - The Government of Odisha Vide No.8584/LC has issued notification regarding revision of minimum wages for various scheduled employment with effect from 1st Oct 2025. Holiday List

Jharkhand- The Government of Jharkhand Vide No.10/SA.AV.03-03/7244 of 2025, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Meghalaya - The Government of Meghalaya Vide No.GAA.78/2025/23 of 2025, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Andhra Pradesh- The Government of Andhra Pradesh Vide G.O.Rt.No.2277 of 2025, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Uttarakhand - The Government of Uttarakhand Vide No.18../XXXI(15) G/25-74(S.O)/2016 of 2025, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Himachal Pradesh - The Government of Himachal Pradesh Vide No.GAD-A(F)10-8/2025 of 2025, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Chandigarh - The Government of Chandigarh Vide No.6/1/1-1H(I)-2025/17488 of 2025, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Haryana - The Government of Haryana Vide No.28/67/2008-1, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Dadra &Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu - The Government of Dadra &Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu vide No.11/01/96-06/GA/Holiday/III/2024-25/4046, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Gujarat - The Government of Gujarat Vide No. GS/22/2025/JSR/2025/509/GH, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Madhya Pradesh - The Government of Madhya Pradesh Vide No.364, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Manipur - The Government of Manipur Vide No.LIB-101/1/2022-GAD-GAD(Part 1), has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Delhi - The Government of Delhi Vide No. F. 53/812/GAD/CN/2025/4540-4576, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Maharashtra - The Government of Maharashtra Vide No.PHD-1125/C.R.199/Japuk (29), has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Telangana - The Government of Telangana Vide G.O Rt.No.1715, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026.

Lakshadweep - The Government of Lakshadweep Vide F.No.35/02/2018-Genl:/864, has released Notification regarding list of holidays for year 2026. Central Draft notification of the Code on Wages (Central) Rules, 2025

The Ministry of Labour and Employment Vide G.S.R. 936 ( E ), has released Draft notification of the Code on Wages (Central) Rules, 2025. The 2025 Central Rules under the Code on Wages mainly update form references and formalize governance structures. The Register of Wages shifts from Form-I to Form-IV, while wage slips remain in Form-V with an updated rule citation. The Annual Return moves from Form-IV to Form-XXIII for unified reporting. The Technical Committee’s role in skill categorization is retained, but its composition is now clearly defined, including senior officials like the DG Employment as Chair. Additionally, the definition of a normal working day changes from a fixed eight hours to being determined by general or special orders issued periodically. Draft notification of the Industrial Relations (Central) Rules, 2025

The Ministry of Labour and Employment Vide G.S.R. 930 ( E ), has released Draft notification of the Industrial Relations (Central) Rules, 2025. The 2025 Central Rules emphasize digital processes and update form references for key notices under industrial relations. Strike notices now use Form XI instead of Form VII, lock-out notices move to Form XII from Form VIII, and retrenchment notices shift to Form XIII from Form IX. Applications to the Tribunal for recovery of dues are filed in Form VII, replacing the earlier Form VI. Additionally, the rules explicitly allow employers to conduct voting for negotiating unions through electronic platforms or IT applications, reinforcing the push toward technology-driven compliance. Draft notification of the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Central) Rules, 2025

The Ministry of Labour and Employment Vide G.S.R. 934 ( E ), has released Draft notification of the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Central) Rules, 2025. The 2025 Central Rules under the OSH Code introduce a key change by lowering the age threshold for mandatory free annual health check-ups from 45 to 40 years. Other provisions remain largely consistent with the 2020 draft, including the requirement for a Safety Committee in establishments with 500 or more workers and a Safety Officer in building projects employing 250 or more workers. The rules also update form references for contract labour licensing, shifting from Form XIII to Form XII, and refine the provision for a single pan-India license, allowing contractors operating across multiple states to apply electronically through the Shram Suvidha Portal. Draft notification of the Code on Social Security (Central) Rules, 2025

The Ministry of Labour and Employment Vide G.S.R. 935 (E ), has released Draft notification of the Code on Social Security (Central) Rules, 2025. The 2025 Central Rules under the Code on Social Security strengthen provisions for gig and platform workers and formalize aggregator responsibilities. Aadhaar-based registration becomes mandatory for all unorganised, gig, and platform workers on a self-declaration basis. Aggregators must now share worker details to generate unique registration numbers and contribute to the Social Security Fund by June 30 each year, calculated as 1–2% of annual turnover or 5% of liability, using Form XX. While gratuity applications remain in Form IV, the appeal fee to the Tribunal increases from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000. These changes consolidate social security measures and enhance compliance through digital processes and defined financial obligations for aggregators. Office memorandum regarding changing the training duration from 360 days to 365 days under Apprentice Act

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship vide File No.AP-17/2/2024-O/o DIR(AT)(E65440), has released Office memorandum regarding changing the training duration from 360 days to 365 days under Apprentice Act. Bill notification of the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025

The Central Government vide Bill No. 10 of 2025 broadens the definition of “employee” to include those employed on wages or under a contract, ensuring contractual workers are covered. It introduces Chapter IVA, requiring biannual work-life balance workshops, mechanisms to assess their effectiveness, and annual reporting. Additionally, the Bill establishes the “right to disconnect” through Section 25A, allowing employees to refuse work-related contact outside working hours, and creates Chapter VIIA to set up an internal workplace wellbeing body to address grievances, bullying, mental health, and human rights issues. ESI Circular regarding New wage definition under section 2(88) of the Code on Social Security, 2020 implemented w.e.f 21/11/2025

The Employees State Insurance Corporation has released Circular regarding New wage definition under section 2(88) of the Code on Social Security, 2020 implemented w.e.f 21/11/2025. Notification regarding the mandatory ESIC registration for educational institutions under Code on Social Security, 2020

The Employees State Insurance Corporation Vide D.O No.37-P/11/23/CoSS-2025/Ins.I, has released Notification regarding the mandatory ESIC registration for educational institutions under Code on Social Security, 2020 Clarification regarding implementation of Amnesty Scheme,2025

The Employees State Insurance Corporation Vide No. P-11/14/Amnesty Scheme/2023-Rev.II, has released Clarification regarding implementation of Amnesty Scheme,2025. clarification outlines eligibility criteria for employers to avail benefits under the scheme, specifies the process for settlement of outstanding ESI contributions, and details timelines for application and payment. Circular on Implementation of Code on Social Security,2020 in ESI

The Employees State Insurance Corporation vide. 35/BEC/MISC-FILE/23-24/CoSS2020, has released Circular on Implementation of Code on Social Security,2020 in ESI. The circular clarifies integration of ESI provisions under the Code, outlines procedures for registration and compliance, and specifies timelines for transitioning to the new system. Press release on SPREE 2025 extended till 31st Jan 2026-ESIC offers more time for Employers to join without past liabilities

The Central government via PIB press note stated The SPREE 2025 scheme by ESIC, originally active from July to December 2025, has been extended until January 31, 2026, giving employers more time to register digitally without inspections or past dues. Registration through ESIC, Shram Suvidha, and MCA portals ensures coverage from the employer-specified date. After the deadline, non-registered establishments will face liability for past contributions, damages, and penalties. This extension reinforces ESIC’s goal of voluntary compliance and wider social security coverage under the Code on Social Security. EPFO FAQ on Social Security Code in EPFO

The Employees Provident Fund Organisation has released FAQ’s for Ease of understanding in implementing the Social Security Code. Circular regarding rectification of erroneous EPS contributions in EPF

The Employees Provident Fund Organisation Vide No.WSU/2025/E-961539/Refund of erroneous contribution/42, has released Circular regarding rectification of erroneous EPS contributions in EPF. Circular regarding regulation of claims in reference to para 22(3) of Employees Deposit Linked Insurance Scheme, 1976 and clarification on treatment of weekends/closed holidays

The Employees Provident Fund Organisation Vide No.791942/EDLI/Contionous/Service/Clarification/2024/1412640/41, has released Circular regarding regulation of claims in reference to para 22(3) of Employees Deposit Linked Insurance Scheme, 1976 and clarification on treatment of weekends/closed holidays. Circular on Discontinuation of Extension of Timeline for mandatory Aadhaar Seeding with UAN

The Employees Provident Fund Organisation vide No. Compliance/BKG-27/5/2021-BKG/e-38791/14066, has released Circular on Discontinuation of Extension of Timeline for mandatory Aadhaar Seeding with UAN for filing of ECR in respect of establishments in the NER and certain class of establishments beyond 31/10/2025. State & UT Notifications Karnataka Notification regarding the compulsorily payment of contribution to the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund

The Government of Karnataka Vide No. Kakakkamam/C.R-05/Vantige/P.P/2025-26, has released Notification regarding the compulsorily payment of contribution to the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund. has mandated compulsory online contributions to the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund by employers in commercial/IT or similar establishments, charitable trusts, and registered societies employing 50 or more workers, for the 2025 calendar year. Contributions must be paid by 15 January 2026, with late payments incurring 12% annual interest for the first three months, increasing to 18% thereafter. Tamil Nadu Amendment notification under Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act, 1947

The Government of Tamil Nadu Vide G.O (Ms)No.116, has issued Amendment notification under Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act, 1947. The amendment requires IT and IT-enabled establishments in Tamil Nadu to submit bi-annual online self-certification of compliance under the Shops and Establishments Act, using a revised Form O that covers statutory obligations, safety, and employee welfare, and mandates electronic submission through the Labour Department portal. Draft amendment notification under Minimum Wages (Tamil Nadu) Rules, 1953

The Government of Tamil Nadu Vide No. SRO A-35/2025, has released Draft amendment notification under Minimum Wages (Tamil Nadu) Rules, 1953. draft notification SRO A‑35/2025 proposes omitting Rule 28‑B from the Minimum Wages (Tamil Nadu) Rules, 1953. It also removes Form XII from the schedule of prescribed forms under the Rules.
These changes have been issued under Section 30 of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, with a three-month window for public suggestions or objections. Bihar Notification of the Bihar Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Rules, 2025

The Government of Bihar Vide No.1/OSHC-01/2021-79, has released Notification of the Bihar Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Rules, 2025. Final Notification of the Code on Wages (Bihar) Rules, 2025

The Government of Bihar, via Notification No. 1/Code on Wages 10‑01/2021, promulgated the Code on Wages (Bihar) Rules, 2025 under Section 67 of the Code on Wages, 2019. These rules, effective upon publication, repeal the Bihar Payment of Wages Rules, 1937 and Bihar Minimum Wages Rules, 1951. Key provisions include revised norms for calculating minimum wages based on living costs, mandatory categorization of workers into Unskilled, Semi‑Skilled, Skilled, and Highly Skilled, regulation of working hours (capped at 48 hours per week, with overtime limits and rest breaks), and comprehensive wage payment rules including deductions, fines, electronic registers (Forms I–IX), and annual electronic filings. Additionally, there are specific provisions ensuring principal employer liability for contractors' wage payments and mandatory employee nominations via Form VII. Final Notification of the Industrial Relation (Bihar) Rules, 2025

The Government of Bihar Vide No. 1/RC-10-01/2020-75/S.R.No, has released Industrial Relation (Bihar) Rules, 2025. These rules lay down provisions for recognition of trade unions, procedures for negotiating agreements, and mechanisms for dispute resolution. They also prescribe norms for strikes, lockouts, retrenchment, and closure, along with detailed requirements for maintaining registers and submitting returns electronically. The rules aim to streamline industrial relations, promote collective bargaining, and ensure compliance through structured forms and digital processes. Chandigarh Notification on extension of the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Act, 2025, to the Union Territory of Chandigarh

The Ministry of Home Affairs vide S.O. 5647 ( E ), has released Notification on extension of the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Act, 2025, to the Union Territory of Chandigarh. This means all provisions of the amended Act, including updated compliance requirements for working hours, employee welfare, and operational norms for shops and commercial establishments, will now be enforced in Chandigarh as per the same standards applicable in Punjab. Delhi Advisory to employers to ensure the maximum spread over time does not exceed the prescribed limit under Delhi S&E Act and Factories Act and precaution advisory issued in lieu of air pollution

The Government of NCT Delhi Vide F.No. Lab/Addl.LC/Misc/278-286, has released Advisory to employers to ensure the maximum spread over time does not exceed the prescribed limit under Delhi S&E Act and Factories Act and precaution advisory issued in lieu of air pollution. Advisory regarding allowing public, municipal and private offices to work on 50% strength and the rest workers to do work from home due to air pollution

The Government of NCT Delhi Vide F.No.Lab/Addl.LC/Misc./2025/4789-4793, has released Advisory regarding allowing public, municipal and private offices to work on 50% strength and the rest workers to do work from home due to air pollution. Notification of the Delhi Shops & Establishments (Amendment) Rules,2025

The Government of NCT Delhi Vide F. No. Lab.-L016/1/2025/4617-4623, has released Notification of the Delhi Shops & Establishments (Amendment) Rules,2025. Notification regarding inviting comments for the Industrial Relation (Delhi)Rules, 2025

The Government of NCT Delhi Vide No. 15(12)/Lab/2022/4473-4479, has released Notification regarding inviting comments for the Industrial Relation(Delhi)Rules, 2025. introducing updates to registration and compliance processes for shops and commercial establishments. The amendment emphasizes digitalization by enabling online registration, renewal, and submission of returns, along with revised norms for record maintenance and display of statutory notices. Notification regarding inviting comments for the he Delhi Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Rules, 2025

The Government of NCT Delhi Vide No.F.27(118)/CIF/lab/2021/1089, has released Notification regarding inviting comments for the Delhi Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Rules, 2025.

Himachal Pradesh Notification of the Himachal Pradesh Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025

The Government of Himachal Pradesh Vide No. LEP-A003/19/2023-Loose-I, has Notification of the Himachal Pradesh Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025. The amendment updates provisions related to worker safety, health, and welfare in factories, including revised norms for working hours, rest intervals, and maintenance of statutory registers. It also introduces stricter compliance requirements for safety measures and reporting, aiming to enhance workplace standards and align with modern industrial practices. Maharashtra Notification regarding Municipal General election holiday on 15th Jan 2026 in Maharashtra

The Government of Maharashtra Vide Circular No. 2025/200/-9, has released Notification regarding Municipal General election holiday on 15th Jan 2026 in Maharashtra. Gujarat
Draft notification of the Gujarat Occupational Safety, Health and Working condition (Amendment)Rules, 2025

The Government of Gujarat vide No.GR/2539 ( A ), has released Draft notification of the Gujarat Occupational Safety, Health and Working ondition(Amendment)Rules, 2025. These include revising permissible working hours and rest intervals to align with the Occupational Safety Code, mandating enhanced health and safety facilities for workers, and introducing digital compliance through electronic record-keeping and online submission of returns. The amendments aim to modernize safety norms, strengthen welfare measures, and streamline enforcement using technology. Notification of the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025

The Government of Gujarat Vide Gujarat Ordinance No. 3 of 2025, has released Notification of the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. introduces three major changes. First, it raises the applicability threshold so that the Act now applies only to establishments with 20 or more employees instead of 10, reducing compliance for smaller businesses. Second, it increases permissible working hours by extending daily limits from 9 to 10 hours, uninterrupted work from 5 to 6 hours, and raising quarterly overtime from 125 to 144 hours. Third, it improves provisions for women working at night by allowing work between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. with consent, provided employers ensure facilities such as rest rooms, crèches, toilets, protection from sexual harassment, and safe transport. Puducherry Order regarding Total number of hours of Overtime under OSHW Code in Puducherry

The Government of Puducherry Vide G.O.Ms.No. 25/LAB/AIL/G/2025, has released Order regarding Total number of hours of Overtime under OSHW Code in Puducherry. Order regarding Safety Measures for Women under OSHW Code in Puducherry

The Government of Puducherry Vide G.OMs.No.27/LAB/AIL/G/2025 , has released Order regarding Safety Measures for Women under OSHW Code in Puducherry. Haryana Advisory regarding allowing private institutions and Corporate offices of the district of Gurugram

The Government of Haryana Vide . No.5383/MB, has released Advisory regarding allowing private institutions and Corporate offices of the district of Gurgram are advised to guide their employees to Work from Home w.e.f 22/12/2025 due to air pollution. Direction to All Employers to ensure the compliance under POSH Act in Gurugram

The Government of Haryana Vide D.O No. 50, has released Direction to All Employers to ensure the compliance under POSH Act in Gurugram. Compliances for the month of January 2026