Gujarat Legislative Assembly has approved the Factories Act (Gujarat Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a significant change to the state’s labour framework.
The bill permits factory workers to opt for a four-day workweek with 12-hour shifts, while maintaining the existing weekly cap of 48 working hours.
The amendment, passed on September 11, 2025, modifies six sections of the central Factories Act, 1948, and is aimed at increasing workplace flexibility, boosting industrial productivity, and attracting investment.
State Labour and Employment Minister Balvantsinh Rajput presented the bill, stating that the changes are designed to modernize labour laws and offer workers—especially women—greater autonomy over their schedules.
The bill will take effect after receiving presidential assent, as required for state-level amendments to central legislation.
Key Provisions: Shift Structure, Overtime, and Paid Leave
Under the new framework, factory employees may work up to 12 hours a day, including breaks. Their total weekly hours must not exceed 48.
Workers who complete four 12-hour shifts will be entitled to paid leave on the fifth and sixth day of the week.
Overtime wages are mandatory for any work beyond nine hours per day or 48 hours per week.
The bill revises break intervals for factory workers. It mandates a half-hour recess after six hours of work, replacing the earlier five-hour threshold.
These changes are intended to balance longer shifts with adequate rest and compensation.
Women’s Night Shifts Permitted with Safeguards in Gujarat
One of the most debated provisions of the bill allows women to work night shifts between 7 pm and 6 am. This is subject to written consent and strict safety conditions.
This marks a departure from earlier restrictions that barred female workers from night-time employment.
To ensure health and safety, factories must provide separate restrooms, toilets, and healthcare facilities for women.
The amendment outlines 16 specific conditions that employers must meet before assigning women to night shifts.
Balvantsinh emphasized that the move aligns with constitutional rights to equality and employment. He added that it follows directions issued by the Gujarat High Court.
Temporary Approvals and Government Oversight
The state government retains the authority to grant or withdraw permissions for 12-hour shifts and other changes.
These approvals are temporary and subject to review.
The bill stipulates that such permissions must comply with central law requirements and receive presidential assent before implementation.
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