Can India’s new labour codes finally bridge the gender divide at work?

India’s new Labour Codes, enforced from 21 November 2025, attempt to bridge the long-standing gap between rhetoric and reality on women’s workforce participation. By mandating wage equality, enabling night-shift work with safeguards, formalising employment, expanding social security, and recognising gig workers, the Codes mark a structural shift toward safer, fairer and more equitable workplaces for women.