PM Modi’s Vision for India’s Future: The Symbiotic Relationship Between ‘Make in India’ and ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047

by Sunil Kumar Gupta | Sep 6, 2025 | Uncategorized

As India marches towards the centenary of its independence in 2047, the nation carries forward an audacious and inspiring mission: the creation of Viksit Bharat—a developed India. This is not merely a slogan to echo on ceremonial occasions but a collective pledge, a roadmap binding government, business, and society in a shared destiny.

At the heart of this transformative journey lies the clarion call of Make in India—a vision to reposition India not just as the world’s back office or factory floor, but as a crucible of innovation, enterprise, and global leadership. By 2047, India aspires not only to be an economic powerhouse but a civilizational beacon of sustainable growth, inclusive prosperity, and technological leadership.

SARC’s global expansion in 2025 is emblematic of this very spirit. A professional services firm with a 40-year legacy of excellence in India, SARC’s international debut is more than a corporate milestone; it is a microcosm of the broader Indian stride towards Viksit Bharat—rooted in Indian values yet aspiring for global impact.

The Vision in Numbers: India’s Economic Momentum

India is today the world’s fastest-growing major economy, with real GDP growth averaging 6.5 percent in 2024–25. Over the past decade, India’s nominal GDP has nearly tripled, increasing from ₹106.57 lakh crore in 2014–15 to ₹331.03 lakh crore in 2024–25. This surge has elevated India to the fourth-largest economy in the world by 2025, with credible projections indicating it will become the third-largest by 2030.

Beyond the numbers, this economic trajectory has profound human implications. Over the past decade, more than 25 crore citizens have been lifted out of poverty, giving rise to a vibrant neo–middle class. This transformation is the foundation of India’s inclusive growth story, one where prosperity is increasingly shared.

The Philosophical Essence of Viksit Bharat@2047

The word Viksit carries a profound resonance. Development, in the Indian context, cannot be reduced to the sterile arithmetic of GDP alone. It must encompass social equity, technological modernity, cultural vitality, and ecological sustainability. A truly developed India will be one where prosperity coexists with purpose, and where material advancement is accompanied by moral depth.

Viksit Bharat@2047, therefore, is about creating a society where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, where innovation flourishes not in isolation but in harmony with tradition, and where India’s ancient ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family — is translated into 21st-century action.

SARC, with its guiding philosophy of trust, transformation, and technology, is aligned with this vision. Its four-decade-long journey of empowering businesses in India is now extending across borders, reflecting India’s resolve to offer not just services, but solutions to the world.

Make in India: More than Manufacturing

Launched in 2014, the Make in India initiative has often been understood narrowly as a push for industrialisation. Yet, its true significance is far broader. It symbolises a reorientation of India’s economic psyche — a shift from dependency to self-reliance, from imitation to innovation.

In the 21st century, “making” is not confined to assembly lines. It includes creating AI-native audits, blockchain-secured compliance systems, quantum-resistant cybersecurity architectures, digital twins, and predictive supply chains — areas where SARC has already positioned itself as a pioneer. By embedding these cutting-edge capabilities into its service portfolio, SARC exemplifies what Make in India truly means: harnessing Indian intellect to create solutions that are not just nationally relevant but globally indispensable.

India’s Economic Transformation (2014–2025)

India’s Global Rise: Economic and Diplomatic Momentum

India today stands at the confluence of demographics, democracy, and demand. With the world’s largest working-age population, a thriving digital economy, and a foreign policy that has earned respect across continents, India’s rise is no longer a prophecy — it is a palpable reality.

The Indian diaspora, numbering over 30 million, has become a bridge between India and the world. From Silicon Valley boardrooms to global policy think tanks, Indians are shaping discourse and direction. Leaders like M.R. Rangaswami of Indiaspora or venture capitalists like Jishnu Bhattacharjee are testimonies to this influence.

SARC’s international launch resonates with this narrative. It demonstrates that Indian firms are not content with domestic achievements alone; they are stepping onto the global stage as architects of transformation, contributing to global economic resilience and collaborative growth.

Science, Technology, and Self-Reliance

The mission of Viksit Bharat rests upon technological sovereignty and innovation. India has already begun laying the foundations for this:

• The IndiaAI Mission, launched in 2024, has committed ₹10,300 crore over five years to build world-class AI infrastructure, including supercomputing facilities with nearly 18,700 GPUs.

• The National Quantum Mission, the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, and policy frameworks like the Space Policy 2023 and BioE3 Policy 2024 are positioning India on the frontiers of 21st-century science.

• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation has been established to catalyse world-class research and encourage cross-disciplinary innovation.

These efforts are bearing fruit. India now ranks third globally in scientific publications, producing over two lakh papers annually, and fourth in Ph.D. awards in science and engineering. In patents, India stands sixth in the world for both resident and non-resident filings. Most significantly, India has leapt from 81st position in the Global Innovation Index in 2015 to 39th in 2024, reflecting its rise as a knowledge economy.

Gross expenditure on R&D has more than doubled in the last decade, and female participation in research has risen to 18.6 percent, signaling a more inclusive innovation ecosystem. India’s success is no longer confined to scale—it is moving steadily towards shaping the future of science and technology.

SARC: A Legacy Rooted in India, A Vision for the World

Established over four decades ago, SARC has become synonymous with trust, innovation, and transformation. Its services have empowered enterprises to not merely survive but thrive amidst changing regulatory, technological, and economic landscapes.

By unveiling SARC Global in 2025, the firm has extended its footprint to the world, showcasing the maturity of Indian professional services. This expansion is not a mere business milestone — it is a statement that Indian intellectual capital, honed over decades, is ready to shape the contours of global enterprise.

From AI-native audits that anticipate risk with predictive precision, to blockchain compliance frameworks that enhance transparency, to quantum-resistant cybersecurity that safeguards the future, SARC exemplifies how Indian expertise can architect global trust and growth.

In many ways, SARC’s story mirrors India’s own trajectory. Both have grown amidst challenges, adapted to transformations, and emerged resilient and future-ready. Both embody the values of integrity, innovation, and inclusivity.

Chairman Sunil Kumar Gupta’s assertion at the global launch — “This is not just a launch—it is India’s message to the world. SARC is a compass guiding businesses towards sustainable growth, scale, and certainty.” — encapsulates the spirit of Viksit Bharat. Just as India aspires to be a compass for the world in the 21st century, SARC aspires to be the compass for businesses navigating volatility and uncertainty.

The Road to 2047: Challenges and Imperatives

The path to 2047 is strewn with challenges: climate change, inequality, geopolitical volatility, and the need for rapid skilling in a world of accelerating technologies. A Viksit Bharat cannot be built on economic growth alone; it requires inclusive development, gender parity, green transitions, and digital empowerment.

Here, the private sector has a decisive role to play. Professional service firms like SARC are uniquely positioned to architect transformation by equipping enterprises with the tools to scale sustainably, comply responsibly, and innovate fearlessly. By aligning private enterprise with national mission, the journey towards 2047 becomes not just possible, but inevitable.

Cross-Border Collaboration: From India to the World

Viksit Bharat is not an insular dream; it is a collaborative one. India’s rise is intertwined with global prosperity. The launch of SARC Global symbolises this ethos of cross-border collaboration.

By offering globally scalable solutions, SARC is building a symbolic bridge — linking four decades of Indian excellence with the aspirations of global economies. Its model underscores the philosophy that Indian firms are not merely participants in globalisation but shapers of it. In this sense, Made in India is evolving into Made for the World.

Global Rise: Diaspora, Diplomacy, and Partnerships

India’s rise is not confined within its borders. With over 32 million citizens abroad, the Indian diaspora is the largest in the world, serving as a bridge of innovation, investment, and ideas across 146 countries. Initiatives like the VAIBHAV Fellowship now link diaspora scientists with cutting-edge research in India, ensuring that global knowledge strengthens domestic capacity.

Diplomatically, India has taken decisive steps. Its leadership in creating the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure reflect its global stewardship. The African Union’s inclusion in the G20, championed during India’s presidency, underscored its role as a voice of the Global South.

On the economic front, India’s trade ecosystem has expanded dramatically. Exports touched a record USD 824 billion in 2024–25, with services accounting for USD 387 billion. Ease of Doing Business reforms have improved India’s ranking from 142 in 2014 to 63 in recent years, reflecting a more competitive and welcoming environment for enterprise.

Towards Shared Prosperity: India’s Message to the World

In a volatile global environment, nations and enterprises alike are searching for resilient growth models. India’s proposition is unique: a growth story anchored in democracy, driven by youth, powered by technology, and guided by values.

SARC, with its expansion, embodies this proposition. It offers a uniquely Indian yet globally adaptable blueprint for enterprise transformation. It assures leaders that scale need not come at the cost of sustainability, and that trust can coexist with transformation.

Thus, SARC’s global step is not merely about market expansion — it is about advancing the cause of shared prosperity, aligning perfectly with India’s message to the world as it marches towards 2047.

SARC: India’s Legacy, Global Compass

It is against this backdrop that SARC’s international debut in 2025 must be understood. With four decades of experience empowering Indian enterprises, SARC now brings to the world a portfolio that blends Indian ingenuity with global relevance:

• AI-native audits capable of predictive risk management.
• Blockchain-enabled compliance frameworks ensuring transparency.
• Quantum-resistant cybersecurity architectures safeguarding the digital future.
• Predictive supply chain models enhancing resilience in uncertain times.

Chairman Sunil Kumar Gupta aptly noted at the global launch: “This is not just a launch—it is India’s message to the world. SARC is a compass guiding businesses towards sustainable growth, scale, and certainty.”

SARC’s trajectory mirrors India’s own: resilient, adaptive, and future-ready. Just as India aspires to be a compass for global progress, SARC seeks to guide enterprises worldwide into a new era of sustainable transformation.

Conclusion: A Century of Confidence

As India approaches its centenary of independence, the mission of Viksit Bharat@2047 stands as a collective pledge. It is the promise of a nation determined to rise not only in economic terms but as a beacon of inclusive, sustainable, and innovative progress.

The story of SARC’s international launch is, in miniature, the story of India itself: resilient, aspirational, confident, and future-ready. By stepping onto the global platform with a legacy of over 40 years, SARC epitomises the essence of Make in India and its evolution into a philosophy of global impact.

The next two decades will define not just India’s destiny but that of the world. As India strives to become Viksit Bharat by 2047, enterprises like SARC will serve as both participants and catalysts in this epochal transformation.

The call, then, is clear: to leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and citizens — join the movement, contribute to the mission, and be part of this century of confidence. For when India rises, the world does not merely watch; it rises along with her.

Written & Compiled by Sunil Kumar Gupta

Empowering Viksit Bharat @2047 through Make In India: SARC Aligns with India’s National Mission

by Sunil Kumar Gupta | Aug 22, 2025 | Uncategorized

Namaskar and good evening.

It is an honour to stand before you today—not merely as a representative of an institution, but as a believer in a shared vision of an interconnected future—where India is not just a participant in the global economy, but one of its primary architects.

And so, I am here not to deliver a monologue, but to extend an invitation.

An invitation to step through a gateway—that opens into a market which is immense in scale and profound in potential.

A market that is no longer just emerging—it is surging.

That market, of course, is India.

In the past five years, the nation has demonstrated what resilience truly means. Amid global disruptions—pandemics, supply chain shocks, and economic slowdowns—India has not only stood its ground; it has moved ahead.

With a projected GDP growth exceeding 6.5% in FY 2025, and has recently overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy.

But I urge you—don’t measure India by GDP alone. Measure us by the diversity and depth of our progress.

• In technology and innovation, we are one of the youngest and most dynamic startup ecosystems in the world, with over 250 space startups and more than 6000 deep-tech startups.
• In manufacturing, our Make in India campaign has catalyzed the Indian economy, attracting record foreign direct investment and raising manufacturing exports by 40–45%.
• In infrastructure, we are expanding highways at a record pace, modernizing rail networks, and building world-class airports and ports that strengthen connectivity and boost our global competitiveness.

India today is not an emerging story. It is a defining strategy.

When our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji articulated the vision of Viksit Bharat, he did not merely lay out an economic plan—he outlined a national mission. A mission to make India a fully developed nation by the time we mark 100 years of independence in 2047.

It is a vision rooted in values and driven by key focus areas:

1. Inclusive Growth—where development is not a privilege but a right
2. Technological Sovereignty—ensuring India creates and owns its own advanced technologies, leading the world in innovation instead of depending on others, and securing our future in vital areas like semiconductors, AI, and space.
3. Sustainability and Harmony—a future where India’s progress moves in seamless rhythm with nature’s balance and the timeless wisdom of our civilization.
4. Institutional Excellence—where transparency, accountability, and innovation shape governance.

As Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji projected, India must give rise to “four Indian accounting firms that will become part of the world’s Big Eight.”

This is not a decorative phrase —it is a purposeful invocation, encouraging firms to rise above boundaries and join the ranks of global visionaries.

A call to build institutions that reflect India’s Scale, Strength, and Spirit.

And in this context SARC steps forward—not as a service provider, but as an essential pillar of global strategy.

At SARC, we don’t just advise; we architect transformation.

With more than 40 years of institutional knowledge and cross-sector experience, we understand that global businesses need more than consultants. They need navigators who combine economic insight, regulatory excellence, and cultural fluency.

SARC enables global companies to enter, operate, and scale in India. But more than that, we help them win in India. Not by chance—but by design.

We work with leaders who dream boldly and execute precisely.
Our approach is built around future-state operating models, incorporating:

• AI-native audit backbones for real-time financial governance.
• Blockchain-based compliance architectures for transparency.
• Quantum-resistant cybersecurity frameworks because tomorrow’s risks can’t be solved with yesterday’s defences.
• Digital twin environments for simulating growth before investing in it.
• Predictive supply chain analytics that transform cost centers into profit engines.

In short, SARC is where experience meets transformation. Where vision meets validation.

Carrying this spirit forward inspired me to write the book “Make in India.”

This is more than a guidebook—it is a strategic companion for any investor, policymaker, or entrepreneur wishing to engage with India.

It highlights our legal frameworks and regulatory landscapes, presenting India not as a puzzle to be solved—but as a partner to be understood.

In an era where knowledge is capital, this book aims to empower decision-makers with the tools to act, not just the data to think.

And so, as we officially launch SARC on the world stage, I extend to you a profound invitation:

Come build with us. In a world that is searching for new centers of gravity, India stands ready.

And SARC stands ready—not only as your guide to India, but as your gateway to a shared future.

Thank you.

-Visionary Address by Sunil Kumar Gupta at SARC’s Global Launch

India–UK Free Trade Pact: A Defining Arc in Global Trade Realignment

by Sunil Kumar Gupta | Aug 2, 2025 | Uncategorized

In the constantly changing architecture of international trade, few initiatives capture the essence of recalibration, resilience and renewed cooperation as deeply as the newly signed India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). At a time when geopolitical fractures and protectionist tendencies are reshaping multilateralism, this historic accord between Asia’s fastest-growing large economy and Europe’s most globally integrated financial centre comes not just as a transactional text but as a visionary one.

Signed into effect on July 24, 2025, after years of careful negotiation, the India–UK FTA, officially known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), marks a new era in bilateralism, innovation-driven partnerships and shared prosperity.

The Deal That Redefined Diplomacy

Historically, India-UK trade has been burdened with complicated legacies. This agreement turns that narrative around: from the post-colonial burden to one of mature strategic partnership founded upon parity and aspirational ambition. Bilateral trade between India and the UK, valued at approximately USD 56 billion in FY 2023–24, is projected to reach USD 120 billion by 2030 under the FTA roadmap.

Whereas international news tends to pursue the sheen of billion-dollar numbers, the strength of this agreement is in its detail. The 99% duty-free trade for Indian exports to the UK is not a rhetorical touch—it is a fine-tuned portal for industries that are both labour-intensive and innovation-led.

India’s Homegrown Sectors on the Global Stage

From the delicate embroidery of Jaipur to the advanced auto parts of Pune, Indian industries—especially MSMEs—will gain immeasurably. The FTA eliminates tariff barriers on goods such as textiles, garments, leather products, gems and jewellery, marine exports, organic chemicals, and sports goods. The gems and jewellery industry, for instance, which exports in the millions to the UK, now expects to grow rapidly under zero-duty access. That’s not wishful thinking—it’s policy arithmetic.

Similarly, Indian textile exports, particularly from clusters such as Tiruppur and Ludhiana, are likely to expand, stimulating not merely export volumes but also employment within the country, particularly among women-owned firms and rural agglomerations.

 Then there is the chemical and agro-processing sector—verticals that have traditionally borne the brunt of low-margin exports because of high tariffs. With those barriers now largely removed, doubling from these verticals of outbound trade is not only possible but probable.

Tapping into the UK’s Diverse Potential

From the British point of view, this deal brings a direct gateway to the world’s most populous democracy and fifth-largest economy—one with a demographically young market, rising middle class, and booming demand for premium and value-added products.

The UK will have significantly lower tariffs on reputation-building exports like Scotch whisky, gin, luxury cars (will be gradually lowered), processed foods, pharmaceuticals and machinery. In addition, this access is not limited to products; it also applies to services, intellectual property rights and a more flexible investment environment. 

Practically, for those British companies that have been wanting to de-risk from the excessive dependence on traditional European supply chains in the Brexit era, India presents an alternative today—robust, reform-oriented and digitally empowered.

Beyond Tariffs: Structure, Sovereignty and Mobility

Whereas the headlines highlight trading volumes, the real revolution in this agreement is structural provisions. The Social Security Coordination Protocol, for example, avoids double contributions to social security on posted workers—a matter of vital concern to both Indian IT workers and UK service providers working cross-border.

Subsequently, there is Geographical Indication (GI) protection, where regional products—Darjeeling tea, Banarasi silk, Scotch whisky and Stilton cheese are protected. This helps ensure that economic cooperation maintains respect for cultural sovereignty and artisanal heritage—an under-explored but critical aspect of ethical trade.

Relaxation of customs processes, regulatory coordination and digital trade harmonisation are the quiet architecture of this pact—less sparkly maybe, but unequivocally the bedrock for contemporary commerce. These will reduce turnaround times at the port, harmonise certification standards and link logistics platforms, particularly for small-scale exporters hitherto slowed down by red tape.

Momentum That Transcends Borders

Geopolitically, the FTA arrives at a moment of world inflexion. As the WTO limps with fragmented consensus and regional blocks such as the RCEP and CPTPP reshape the map of trade, bilateral agreements such as this one provide flexibility and harmonisation without the bulk of large multilateral architectures.

For India, it is a strategic foothold in the West—a complementary curve for its Act East policy. For the UK, it is its most audacious post-Brexit free trade agreement to date, one that delivers market access but also narrative clout: the power to claim a role in the Indo-Pacific century. In particular, the FTA has also included chapters on sustainability, labor practices and e-commerce trade norms—with economic benefits not divorced from social responsibility.

Jobs, Growth and the Invisible Multipliers

Even as projections suggest the agreement could add USD 34 billion to two-way trade each year by 2040, the actual tale is one of multipliers. Export booms don’t merely inflate balance sheets—they spur domestic industry, generate rural employment, enable artisans and support state-level economies.

In addition, industries such as auto parts, pharma and electronics that work on global value chains will now experience deeper integration into UK and EU systems, providing Indian companies with credibility to grow faster and innovate more deeply. Equally, British investors can now access India’s enormous startup ecosystem, agri-tech, climate innovation and infrastructure development—all with a degree of regulatory certainty that this agreement provides.

What the Numbers Don’t Show

Trade deals are usually understood through GDP boosts and tariff graphs. The India–UK FTA carries not just economic weight but emotional resonance: it marks two mature democracies choosing engagement over coercion and collaboration over competition. It affirms that economic sovereignty need not be a zero-sum pursuit but can rest on the pillars of interdependence, trust and shared prosperity.

It reflects an evolved diplomacy-one that goes beyond signing ceremonies to touch upon migration, education, intellectual property, and digital ecosystems. Trade is no longer just about goods on ships; it is about ideas, services, people and the soft power of collaboration.

Conclusion: From Symbol to Substance

India–UK FTA is more than a policy paper; it is a strategic canvas. It demonstrates the maturity of a relationship that has transcended transactional intercourse and developed into long-term partnerships. To entrepreneurs, industrialists, professionals, and policymakers, it presents not only doors of access to markets but also to long-term integration into the global economy.

If executed with intent and institutional will, this agreement can indeed become a case study in how two nations—diverse in history, united in aspiration—can co-author a trade story that is not only lucrative but also lasting.

Written and Compiled By Sunil Kumar Gupta

India Now: A Secure, Self-Reliant, and Sovereign Power on the Rise

by Sunil Kumar Gupta | Jun 7, 2025 | Uncategorized

India, a civilisation rooted in peace and diplomacy, has long upheld the principle of “Ahimsa”—never initiating aggression, even in the face of grave provocation. Despite being a nuclear power and one of the world’s largest standing armies, India has never attacked another nation first. Yet, it has consistently borne the brunt of cross-border terrorism, especially from its hostile neighbours.

The cowardly terror attack in Pahalgam marked a painful continuation of this pattern. But what followed—Operation Sindoor—was not just a military retaliation. It was a watershed moment in India’s strategic doctrine. For the first time in recent history, India responded not only with precision strikes but with a calibrated assertion of its sovereignty, technological prowess, and economic confidence.

This operation did more than neutralise terror—it signaled the rise of a new India. One that is done absorbing the cost of restraint. One that is ready to lead with indigenous strength, economic self-reliance, and strategic clarity.

Operation Sindoor: A Turning Point in India’s Counter-Terror Strategy

Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, was a significant military response by India to the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22, resulting in the deaths of 26 civilians. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation was a coordinated effort involving the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing joint operational capability. Moreover, ISRO’s satellite infrastructure played a crucial role in surveillance and intelligence gathering, enhancing the precision of the strikes. 

India conducted missile and air strikes targeting nine sites across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan’s Punjab province. The attacks were carried out using Rafale aircraft equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer glide bombs, as well as BrahMos cruise missiles and SkyStriker loitering munitions.

“Through Operation Sindoor, India has used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil, and the Armed Forces scripted history by acting with precision, precaution & compassion to destroy the camps used to train terrorists in Pakistan and PoK. As per the plan, the targets were destroyed and no civilian population was harmed. The whole world has witnessed what our Armed Forces have done. The action was carried out very thoughtfully and in a measured manner. It was limited only to the camps and other infrastructure used for training terrorists with the aim of breaking their morale.” as stated by– Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in the evening of 7th May, 2025. 

The Indian Armed Forces, in coordination with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), National Security Guard (NSG), and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), executed a swift and highly targeted military offensive. Strikes were conducted across nine (9) sites.  Over 100 terrorists were confirmed eliminated, including several high-value targets from outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

What differentiated Operation Sindoor from previous counter-offensives was the unprecedented use of next-generation warfare technology. AI-driven real-time surveillance systems scanned movement across the LoC, while satellite-guided drone squadrons—equipped with precision missile systems—carried out pin-point strikes on high-value targets. The Indian Army’s newly formed Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) utilised geospatial intelligence and thermal signature analytics to target and eliminate terrorist hideouts with surgical accuracy.

Significantly, the operation recorded less than 1% collateral damage, with zero reported civilian deaths—a first in cross-border operations of such magnitude. This reflected India’s strict adherence to international humanitarian law and its commitment to ethical warfare. India also deployed Signal Intelligence Units and cyber-warfare specialists to intercept communication networks and disable terror funding routes.

India Retaliates: Multi-Dimensional Warfare

India’s retaliation was not merely confined to a military strike; it was a multi-dimensional retaliation. Economic sanctions, cancellation of bilateral events, diplomatic isolation of Pakistan at international forums, and blocking of trade routes were activated almost simultaneously. This level of preparedness and coordination showed a renewed national resolve.

Unlike previous incidents, India’s response wasn’t limited to the battlefield. The government initiated a multi-pronged retaliation:

• • Economic Sanctions: Indian businesses were instructed to cut trade ties with Pakistan-based firms.
  • Diplomatic Blockade: India led efforts to further isolate Pakistan at the UN, G20, and BRICS forums.
  • Cultural Boycotts: Sporting and entertainment exchanges were suspended indefinitely.
  • Technology Embargoes: Export of software and cybersecurity products to Pakistan was banned.

This strategy reflected a mature economic understanding—that wars today are not just fought with guns, but with rupees, reputations, and algorithms.

Strategic Wins Beyond the Battlefield

While the warzone operations were critical, the real strength of India’s response lay in its strategic deterrence. Cyber surveillance, border fencing, and a seamless intelligence-sharing mechanism among domestic and international agencies ensured a zero-tolerance stance. The Defence Cyber Agency and National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) played pivotal roles in digital warfare and misinformation control.

Victory was not just territorial but technological and strategic. India’s NTRO (National Technical Research Organisation), in collaboration with the Defence Cyber Agency, successfully thwarted over 300 planned cyberattacks on financial and defence systems.

• • Border Fencing with laser sensors reduced infiltration.
  • Satellite Monitoring of LoC hotspots helped identify cross-border tunnels.
  • Deepfakes and misinformation control units were deployed to stabilise national sentiment during the operation.

The results were revolutionary—zero economic shutdown, zero disruption in financial markets, and a surge in global investor confidence.

India-Pakistan Treaties: From Dialogue to Disengagement

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, diplomatic relations with Pakistan plunged to historic lows. India and Pakistan have signed several bilateral agreements aimed at fostering peace and managing conflict. Prominent among them is the Simla Agreement (1972), which emphasised peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and bilateral negotiations. The Lahore Declaration (1999) further committed both nations to confidence-building measures, including nuclear risk reduction. The Indus Waters Treaty (1960)—a World Bank-brokered agreement—remains one of the few functioning treaties, allowing equitable water sharing of the Indus River system. The Indian government suspended all bilateral talks, and global powers supported India’s stance on cross-border terrorism. Pakistan faced global scrutiny, including from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). 

However, post-2016 and more significantly after Operation Sindoor in 2025, many cooperative frameworks have collapsed. Backchannel diplomacy, cultural exchanges, and bilateral cricket ties have been frozen. The Cross-LoC trade agreement, suspended since 2019, shows no signs of revival. India has also reviewed the Indus Waters Treaty, citing Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism. With diplomatic ties downgraded and the High Commissioners withdrawn, the Indo-Pak treaty landscape today reflects deep mistrust and strategic recalibration.

Operation Sindoor marked a paradigm shift in India-Pakistan diplomatic relations. In its aftermath, India suspended all bilateral engagements—from trade talks and cricket matches to people-to-people initiatives. This was not a mere show of anger but a calibrated withdrawal, signaling that terrorism and diplomacy cannot coexist.

The global community responded with rare unity. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) intensified scrutiny of Pakistan’s non-compliance with terror financing, keeping it in the grey list. India’s evidence-backed dossiers, digital intercepts, and satellite imagery led to widespread international condemnation of Pakistan’s role in harboring terrorism. This isolation cost Pakistan billions in trade losses and global funding. India’s strategic patience had evolved into decisive leadership, establishing a new diplomatic norm in South Asia.

Global Reactions: Condemnation of Terror, Commendation of India

Countries like the USA, France, Australia, and Japan unequivocally condemned the attacks and supported India’s counter-terrorism measures. The United Nations also expressed solidarity with India’s stance. The attack and retaliation revived discussions on forming a global anti-terror coalition led by responsible democracies.

India’s actions received resounding global approval. Nations such as the United States, France, Australia, Japan, and the UAE not only condemned the attacks but endorsed India’s right to self-defence.

• • The United Nations issued a rare joint statement upholding India’s sovereignty.
  • Interpol extended cooperation in tracking terror financiers.
  • France and Israel offered defence collaboration in urban counter-terror strategies.

These responses weren’t spontaneous—they were earned through India’s consistent positioning as a responsible democracy with a commitment to a lawful global order. India also reasserted its eligibility for permanent UNSC membership, with Operation Sindoor becoming a pivotal moment in that claim.

Post-Operation Initiatives: Government on the Front Foot

Post-operation, the Indian government rolled out a series of national initiatives to strengthen internal security, increase defence production, and reduce import dependence. ‘Defence Corridor 2.0’ was announced, along with a fast-track approval process for indigenous manufacturers under Make in India.

The government moved fast. Recognising that internal strength deters external threats, a suite of initiatives was launched under the Atmanirbhar Bharat 2.0 defence strategy:

• • Defence Corridor 2.0 was announced in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to boost indigenous weapon production.
  • Make in India fast-track approvals were introduced for startups and SMEs manufacturing defence tech.
  • The Strategic Partnership Model (SPM) was restructured to expedite private sector entry into defence production.

These steps addressed two critical needs—reducing dependency on foreign arms (currently at 60%) and turning India into a global defence exporter, not just a consumer.

Citizen and Business Duty: Nation First

As citizens and entrepreneurs, the onus is now on each of us to uphold the nation-first approach. Whether it’s supporting local products, reporting suspicious activities, or building secure business environments, national responsibility must become a core principle in civil life and corporate policy.

A war-like moment doesn’t just belong to the military—it belongs to the entire nation. Operation Sindoor awakened citizens and businesses to a shared responsibility model:

• • Citizens were encouraged to report cyber threats, frauds, and suspected sleeper cells via new MHA apps, including the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System, etc.
  • Businesses were urged to cut contracts with vendors from high-risk nations, implement cybersecurity protocols, and adopt data localisation.
  • Schools and institutions launched programs on civic defence education, creating awareness on disinformation and hybrid warfare.

The message was clear: National Security is No Longer Just a Government Function—It’s a Societal Asset.

The Economic War: From Import Addiction to Economic Independence

India continues to import billions worth of goods that are readily manufacturable within our borders—such as electronics, toys, furniture, and packaged goods such as cosmetics and skincare products, personal hygiene products, stationery, household cleaning products, etc. Each unnecessary import is an opportunity lost. The import substitution movement is no longer an option but a necessity in the post-terror economy. 

India’s $800 billion import bill is both an economic challenge and a strategic vulnerability. Post-Operation Sindoor, a movement against unnecessary imports gained momentum. The target? Products easily manufacturable within India:

• • Electronics (like smartphones and routers),
  • Consumer Goods (toys, packaged food, furniture),
  • Industrial Components (auto parts, APIs for medicines).

Every dollar spent on imports funds someone else’s industry—and, in hostile cases, someone else’s army. By reducing imports from countries that fund or support terror, India is leading a non-violent economic retaliation against global terror networks.

Grow in India, Produce in India, Consume in India, Export from India

The core economic strategy post-Operation Sindoor is clear: Grow in India, Produce in India, and Consume in India. The slogan aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision that not only secures our economic future but also acts as a non-violent countermeasure to terrorism funding.

The new national slogan isn’t a campaign—it’s an economic war cry:

This strategy aligns with:

• • PLI schemes to support local manufacturing,
  • Export subsidies for made-in-India defence and electronics,
  • MSME credit programs to help Indian businesses scale.

Economically, this stimulates GDP, creates jobs, increases forex reserves, and shrinks dependency on volatile global supply chains. Psychologically, it shifts the national mindset from consumerism to conscious capitalism. Psychologically, it marks a paradigm shift—from mindless consumerism to conscious capitalism. Indian consumers are being urged to support homegrown brands, local artisans, and domestic innovators—turning purchasing decisions into acts of patriotism. This isn’t isolationism. 

India is not retreating from globalisation; instead, it is recalibrating its global role—with self-reliance as its foundation and strategic trade partnerships as its growth engine. “Economic sovereignty is the new frontline of national security.” And Operation Sindoor has made it clear: India’s battle against terror is also a fight to reclaim its economic destiny.

A Call to Oath: Nation First, Always

Let us pledge: 

This is more than sentiment—it is a civic duty in the face of a globalised threat. This is not just symbolism—it’s modern warfare morality. In a world where terror wears digital masks and economic links, only a resilient society of aware citizens can win. It’s time we define ourselves not just by our freedom, but by how we protect it.

India’s Rise: Now the 4th Largest Economy

India’s GDP has officially touched $4.2 trillion, surpassing Germany and positioning the nation as the fourth-largest economy in the world. This is not merely a statistical achievement—it marks a significant transformation in India’s global standing. With projections indicating India’s economy will reach $5 trillion by 2027, this upward trajectory provides more than economic pride—it offers strategic leverage in geopolitical, security, and technological arenas. A strong economy enables India to act from a position of confidence, making decisions in the national interest without external pressure or dependency.

Supporting this momentum is India’s robust foreign exchange reserve of approximately $645 billion, a cushion that ensures financial resilience during global shocks. Initiatives like Digital India and widespread UPI adoption have revolutionised the economic landscape, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. These digital advancements have increased financial inclusion, enhanced transparency, and minimised leakages, enabling direct benefit transfers to millions. Additionally, India’s aggressive push toward renewable energy, green hydrogen, and electric vehicle (EV) policies is not only reducing carbon footprints but also future-proofing the economy against oil price volatility and energy insecurity.

This economic strength has profound implications for national security and technological autonomy. India can now independently fund its own wars, defence technologies, cybersecurity infrastructure, and research initiatives, minimising reliance on foreign donors or military alliances. Economic sovereignty has thus become the strongest counter-terror insurance, fortifying the country’s ability to respond decisively and swiftly to any external threat. Furthermore, a strong economy gives India the soft power to influence regional peace, attract global investment, and shape international norms in its favor—truly marking the arrival of India as a superpower by design, not accident.

Future Impact: The Rise of a Resilient India

The post-Sindoor India is no longer a reactionary state—it is strategic, sovereign, and thoroughly solution-oriented. Operation Sindoor was not an isolated act of retaliation; it catalysed a fundamental shift in how India governs national security, economic priorities, and global positioning. This transformation is now visible in budget allocations, inter-ministerial coordination, and forward-thinking public policies. For the first time, national defence is no longer confined to the Ministry of Defence—it is a shared responsibility across ministries, from commerce to education, health, and infrastructure. This integrated approach underscores a shift toward long-term preparedness rather than short-term panic.

The 2025–2026 Union Budget reveals this new reality. Infrastructure development has been redirected toward national security imperatives, with significant investments in building smart border towns equipped with surveillance systems, AI-powered threat detection, and high-speed military rail corridors to enable rapid troop and supply deployment. Strategic ports along both eastern and western coasts are being fortified, not only to secure trade routes but to serve as naval hubs under the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. In education, IITs and IIMs are rolling out specialised programs in cybersecurity, defence analytics, and strategic policymaking, ensuring that India creates not just soldiers, but thinkers and architects of modern security.

Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2121901

https://www.mospi.gov.in/

https://dpiit.gov.in/statistics

https://www.fatf-gafi.org/

Written and Compiled by Sunil Kumar Gupta

Will New Labour Codes Secure Wages and Social Security for 50 Crore Workers, Including Gig and Platform Workers?

by Sunil Kumar Gupta | Dec 21, 2023 | Uncategorized

The introduction of four New Labour Codes introduced by the Government of India represents a significant step towards reforming and strengthening labour laws in India. The Code on Wages was enacted by the Parliament in August 2019, followed by the Industrial Relations Code in September 2020. Similarly, the Code on Social Security and the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code were also enacted by the Parliament in September 2020. These legislative actions signify a comprehensive effort to reform and streamline labor laws, addressing various aspects related to wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety and health. The synchronized enactment of these codes demonstrates a holistic approach toward creating a more coherent and contemporary framework for labor regulations in the country.

The landmark decision to consolidate 29 laws into four codes is a historic step toward providing women with not only job security but also respect, health, and various welfare measures. Through these labor reforms, there is a clear commitment to creating an environment that prioritizes the well-being of women in the workforce. Additionally, these changes are expected to significantly enhance the ease of doing business in the country, streamlining regulations and fostering a more conducive environment for both employers and employees. This forward-looking approach not only supports gender equality but also contributes to the overall economic development and business efficiency in the nation.

In this comprehensive reform, the government seeks to ensure that all workers have a statutory right to receive minimum wages and timely wage payments, fostering a more equitable and prosperous labour environment. To reduce ambiguity and legal disputes, these codes introduce uniform and straightforward definitions of ‘wages’ across all four labour-related regulations. Furthermore, the introduction of annual health check-ups and medical facilities aims to improve the overall well-being of workers, enhancing productivity and extending life expectancy.

These reforms also formalize the employment relationship by requiring the issuance of appointment letters to every employee, ultimately providing job security and enabling workers to claim statutory benefits such as minimum wages and social security. Additionally, the creation of a Re-skilling Fund demonstrates the government’s commitment to the skill development of workers, aligning with the changing demands of the job market.

Furthermore, the codes recognize the importance of addressing the needs of gig workers and platform workers by defining them and paving the way for the formulation of social security schemes funded by aggregators and government sources. This inclusive approach extends the benefits of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation and the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization to unorganized workers, gig workers, and platform workers, along with their families.

The reforms also ensure that fixed-term employment (FTE) workers are entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees, promoting fairness and job security. Workers’ rights are further enhanced with provisions for annual leave with wages and the option to encash leave on demand, offering flexibility and financial security.

Moreover, the expansion of the Employees’ Provident Fund to all industries, irrespective of their scheduling, underscores the government’s commitment to improving social security and labour welfare across various sectors. In sum, these labour codes represent a transformative and forward-looking effort to foster a more inclusive, secure, and prosperous work environment for all workers in India.

The four Labour Codes aim to enhance worker protection, including those in the unorganized sector, by ensuring statutory minimum wages, social security, and healthcare. Some significant provisions of these Codes include:

1. Establishing a statutory right for all workers to receive minimum wages and timely wage payments to support sustainable development and inclusivity.
2. Introducing a consistent and easily enforceable definition of ‘wages’ across all four Labour Codes to prevent multiple interpretations and legal disputes.
3. Providing annual health check-ups and medical facilities to enhance worker productivity and increase life expectancy.
4. Requiring the issuance of appointment letters to every employee, formalizing employment contracts, increasing job security, and enabling workers to claim statutory benefits such as minimum wages and social security.
5. Establishing a Re-skilling Fund for worker skill development.
6. Defining gig workers and platform workers to create social security schemes, funded by aggregators and other sources, with contributions from both the Central and State Governments.
7. Allowing the Central Government to extend benefits to unorganized workers, gig workers, platform workers, and their families through the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation and the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization.
8. Granting fixed-term employment (FTE) workers entitlement to the same benefits available to permanent employees, including gratuity after one year of service.
9. Ensuring that every worker is entitled to annual leave with wages after working for 180 days, compared to the current requirement of 240 days. Additionally, there is a provision for leave encashment on the worker’s request while in service at the end of the calendar year.
10. Expanding the applicability of the Employees’ Provident Fund to all industries, as opposed to only scheduled industries as it stands presently.

Major Achievements of New Labour Codes are as follows –

• As of December 2023, the Shram Suvidha Portal has successfully generated 4,268,334 Labour Identification Numbers (LIN). Furthermore, inspection reports for 821,283 cases have been uploaded onto the portal, reflecting the ongoing efforts to monitor and manage labor-related activities.
• The eSHRAM portal has been established with the aim of building a National Database of Unorganized Workers, incorporating Aadhaar details to facilitate the provision of social security benefits. Eligibility for registration on the eSHRAM portal is open to any worker operating in the unorganized sector with an age ranging from 16 to 59. This database encompasses a diverse range of workers, including migrant workers, construction workers, gig workers, platform workers, and more. As of December 2023, a noteworthy achievement has been reached, with a total of 29,23,93,908 e-cards issued through the portal, marking a significant step in the coverage and support for unorganized workers across the nation.
• As of October 2023, the All India Consumer Price Index Number for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) has experienced a rise of 0.9 points, reaching a value of 138.4 (one hundred thirty-eight point four). In terms of the one-month percentage change, there has been a 0.65% increase compared to the previous month. This is in contrast to the 0.91% increase recorded during the corresponding months of the previous year. These figures provide insights into the fluctuations in the cost of living and inflationary trends affecting industrial workers in India.
• As part of the Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 initiative, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) extended its outreach to stakeholders across all districts of the country. The monthly ‘Nidhi Aapke Nikat’ program held on April 27th, 2023, covered 666 districts with 27,592 participants. The focus was on addressing grievances, resulting in 12,437 reported issues, of which 9,816 were successfully resolved. This effort underscores EPFO’s commitment to increasing accessibility, visibility, and resolving concerns for its stakeholders nationwide.
• As part of the celebration of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM), the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has initiated a special drive to promote the filing of e-nominations by its members. In the month of September 2023, a notable achievement was reached with the filing of 3.40 lakh e-nominations. Cumulatively, as of September 30, 2023, a total of 2.07 crore e-nominations have been successfully filed, reflecting the widespread participation of members in utilizing the digital nomination process facilitated by EPFO. This effort aligns with the organization’s commitment to modernize processes and enhance member convenience.
• The provisional payroll data released by EPFO in November 2023 reveals a positive trend, indicating the addition of 891,583 net subscribers during the month of September 2023. This data underscores the ongoing growth and engagement within the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization, with a substantial number of individuals being added to the workforce during the specified period.
• As part of the ‘Prayaas’ initiative, the field offices of EPFO have been actively distributing Pension Payment Orders (PPOs) to members of the Employees’ Pension Scheme 1995 on the day of their superannuation. Until September 30, 2023, the field offices conducted a total of 6,751 webinars to promote and educate stakeholders about the Prayaas initiative. Furthermore, during the month of September 2023 alone, 403 PPOs were successfully handed over to subscribers, highlighting the commitment of EPFO to streamline processes and enhance member services through proactive initiatives like Prayaas.
• As part of the efforts to boost employment generation and mitigate the socio-economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Labour & Employment introduced the EPFO-linked Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY) scheme on December 30, 2020. As of September 23, 2023, a total of 1,52,452 establishments have likely participated in the scheme, contributing to the broader objective of fostering economic recovery and job creation in the wake of the pandemic.

In this article, we will delve into some of the vital provisions and implications of these groundbreaking New Labour Codes, shedding light on their potential to improve the lives of countless workers across India.

4 New Labour Codes – a revolutionary approach to protecting the interests of workers

Labour laws in India had their origins in the British Raj, but over time, many of these laws had become obsolete and ineffective. Instead of safeguarding workers’ interests, some of these outdated labour codes had hindered their progress.

In response to this, the then-current government recognized the need to eliminate redundant or irrelevant labour laws. Consequently, the 29 existing labour laws were streamlined and consolidated into 4 new labour codes, a move that was expected to bring significant benefits to all stakeholders.

Benefits of New Labour Code

• Right to Minimum Wages for Everyone

4 labour laws are amalgamated into the Minimum Wage Code which has provided the “right to minimum wages” for the first time.

Labour Code (Wage Code) – 2019

• For the first time since India’s independence, the government is actively working towards providing wage security, social security, and health security to workers in both organized and unorganized sectors.
• The assurance of minimum wages extends to workers in both organized and unorganized sectors.
• Review of minimum wage rates every five years.
• Workers will get timely payment of their wages as a guaranteed right.
• Male and female workers will receive equal remuneration for their work.
• Approximately 400 million unorganized workers now have the right to a minimum wage, a significant development.
• The introduction of a floor wage aims to eliminate regional disparities in minimum wage levels.
• Determining minimum wages has been simplified by basing it on criteria like skill level and geographical locUnder National Data Governance Policy, GoI to set up 1 hundred labs in order to develop applications using 5G services in engineering institutions to realize a new range of opportunities, business models, and employment potential.
• Increased wage ceiling from Rs 18,000 to Rs 24,000 in FY 28-08-2017.

• Social Security for Everyone

In order to guarantee security for all workers, the Central Government consolidated nine Labour Laws into the Social Security Code. This step was taken to safeguard workers’ rights to insurance, pensions, gratuity, maternity benefits, and more.

Through this Code, a comprehensive legal framework for Social Security was established, ensuring that workers could fully access social security benefits.

Under this initiative, a systematic approach was put in place for contributions from both employers and workers. Additionally, the government had the capacity to subsidize contributions from workers in disadvantaged sections.

Social Security Code, 2020

• By making a nominal contribution, individuals can access the privilege of receiving free medical treatment at ESIC hospitals and dispensaries.
• The accessibility of ESIC will now be extended to workers across all sectors, including those in the unorganized sector.
• The expansion of ESIC hospitals, dispensaries, and branches will now reach the district level, extending this service from the existing 566 districts to cover all 740 districts in the country.
• ESIC benefits are extended to any worker involved in hazardous work, even if it’s just a single worker.
• Platform and gig workers in emerging technology fields have the opportunity to join ESIC.
• Plantation workers to get benefit of ESIC.
• Institutions operating in hazardous areas are required to undergo mandatory registration with ESIC.

Expansion of Social Security

• The pension scheme (EPFO) benefits will be extended to workers in both organized and unorganized sectors, including those who are self-employed.
• A social security fund is being established to deliver all-encompassing social security support to the unorganized sector.
• The necessity for a minimum service requirement to receive gratuity has been eliminated for fixed-term employees.
• Fixed-term employees are entitled to receive the same social security benefits as permanent employees.
• The establishment of a national worker database for the unorganized sector will be achieved through registration on a dedicated portal.
• Employers with a workforce of over 20 employees are required to submit job vacancies online.
• A Universal Account Number (UAN) will be introduced to cover ESIC, EPFO, and workers in the unorganized sector.
• A Universal Account Number (UAN) based on Aadhaar to ensure effortless portability.

• Right of Security to Workers in All Situations

To enhance workplace safety and occupational health for workers, the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, 2020 has consolidated 13 existing labour laws. This Code prioritizes safeguarding the interests of workers in various sectors, including factories, mines, plantations, the motor transport industry, bidi and cigar workers, as well as contract and migrant workers.

OSH Code (Occupational, Safety, Health, Working Condition) – 2020

• Numerous provisions within the OSH Code will improve the living conditions and well-being of Inter-State Migrant Workers.
• The OSH Code has effectively resolved the discrepancies present in the Inter-State Migrant Workers Act, 1979. In the past, only workers hired by a contractor were acknowledged as Inter-State Migrant Workers. However, the updated provisions in the Code empower workers to become self-reliant by allowing them to self-register as Inter-State Migrant Workers on the national portal. This registration grants them a legal identity, enabling access to the benefits of various social security schemes.
• An arrangement has been put in place for employers to offer an annual travel allowance to Inter-State Migrant Workers for their round-trip journey to their hometown.
• Mandatory issuance of appointment letters to workers has been implemented.
• Employers are required to provide workers with a mandatory and cost-free annual health check-up.
• Workers engaged in construction and related activities, working in one state and relocating to another state, will receive benefits from the Building and other Construction Workers’ Cess fund.
• The “One Nation – One Ration Card” initiative ensures that an Inter-State Migrant Worker can access ration benefits in the state where they are employed, while the rest of their family can avail these benefits in the state where they reside.
• A national database will be established for Inter-State Migrant Workers.
• Now, if a worker has worked for 180 days, they will be entitled to one day of leave for every 20 days of work completed, instead of the previous requirement of 240 days.

Women Empowerment Through New Labour Codes in India

• Women workers have the right to work in all categories of establishments.
• Women now possess the right to work during nighttime with their consent, and employers must ensure adequate safety and facilities for women workers during night shifts.
• In 2017, amendments were made to the Maternity Benefit Act to extend paid maternity leave for female workers from 12 weeks to 26 weeks and mandate the availability of crèche facilities in all establishments employing 50 or more workers.

• Industrial Relations (IR) Code

Through the amalgamation of three Labour Laws into the Industrial Relations Code, the Central Government has taken measures to protect the interests of both Trade Unions and workers. This Code encompasses various provisions aimed at ensuring the harmony and minimizing potential disputes between industrial units and workers in the future.

Towards the end of disputes (Industrial Relations Code) –

• In the event of job loss, workers will be eligible for benefits under the Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna.
• The Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna offers financial assistance to organized sector workers who lose their jobs, serving as a form of unemployment allowance. This benefit is available to workers enrolled in the ESI Scheme.
• During the retrenchment process, workers will receive 15 days’ worth of wages dedicated to re-skilling. These wages will be directly deposited into the worker’s bank account, facilitating their ability to acquire new skills.
• Accelerated delivery of justice to workers via the Tribunal.
• Resolution of workers’ disputes in the Tribunal within one year.
• Industrial Tribunals will consist of two members to expedite the resolution of cases.
• In industrial establishments, a Trade Union that secures 51 percent of the votes will be acknowledged as the exclusive negotiating union with the authority to engage in agreements with employers.
• In industrial establishments where no trade union garners 51 percent of the votes, a negotiating council of trade unions will be formed to facilitate agreements with the employer.

Welfare of Inter-State Migrant Workers

The government has devoted considerable effort to enhance the welfare of Inter-State Migrant Workers. Measures have been implemented to fortify the legal framework concerning these workers.

For the benefit of Inter-State Migrant Workers and those in need, the Central Government has expedited various schemes, such as Garib Kalyan and the delivery of free food grains to households.

Benefits of Codification

• Single Registration; Single License; Single Statement; Minimum Forms
• Common definitions
• Reduction of Committees
• Web-based surprise inspection
• Use of technology – Electronic registration and licensing
• Reduction of compliance cost and disputes

Impact of New Labour code

The impact of the new Labour Codes in India is multifaceted and has several implications for the labour landscape, the economy, and society as a whole:

1. Enhanced Worker Protection: The introduction of statutory rights to minimum wages and timely wage payments provides workers with financial security, reducing the risk of exploitation and poverty among the labour force. This can lead to improved living standards for a significant portion of the population.
2. Formalization of Employment: Requiring employers to issue appointment letters formalizes employment relationships, increasing job security and ensuring that workers can claim their rightful benefits. This formalization can lead to more stable employment conditions for workers.
3. Skill Development: The creation of a Re-skilling Fund emphasizes the importance of keeping the workforce up to date with evolving job market demands. This can lead to a more skilled and adaptable labour force, contributing to economic growth.
4. Inclusion of Gig Workers: Recognizing and providing social security benefits to gig and platform workers acknowledges the changing nature of work. This can improve the working conditions and welfare of a significant segment of the workforce.
5. Equal Treatment for Fixed-Term Employees: Ensuring that fixed-term employees receive the same benefits as permanent employees promotes fairness in employment practices and job security for a wider range of workers.
6. Improved Health and Well-being: The provision for annual health check-ups and medical facilities enhances workers’ overall health and productivity. Healthier workers tend to be more efficient and have a longer work life, contributing to economic growth.
7. Streamlined Definitions and Regulations: The introduction of uniform definitions of ‘wages’ simplifies compliance for employers and reduces legal disputes. This can lead to more efficient labour market operations and less administrative burden for businesses.
8. Social Security Expansion: Extending social security benefits to unorganized workers, gig workers, platform workers, and their families provides a safety net for a larger portion of the workforce. This can reduce economic vulnerabilities and improve social welfare.
9. Promotion of Gender Equality: Provisions promoting gender equality can empower women to participate more actively in the labour force, potentially leading to increased economic output and improved social inclusivity.
10. Economic Growth and Productivity: Overall, the Labour Codes can contribute to economic growth by ensuring a more efficient and inclusive labour market. With a protected and skilled workforce, businesses can operate more effectively, leading to increased productivity and, in turn, economic growth.
11. Reduced Administrative Burden: Simplifying regulations and compliance can reduce the administrative burden on businesses, making it easier for them to focus on growth and expansion.
12. Legal Clarity: The Labour Codes bring about legal clarity with standardized definitions and regulations. This can reduce legal disputes and lead to a more predictable and stable labour environment.
13. Improved Working Conditions: The codes have provisions for better working conditions and safety, ensuring that workers are healthier and more motivated, which can lead to improved productivity.

The introduction of the Labour Codes in India represents a significant step toward reforming labour laws and has far-reaching implications for workers, employers, and the broader economy. The impact is expected to be positive, promoting better labour conditions, inclusivity, and economic growth. However, the successful implementation and enforcement of these codes will be critical to realizing these potential benefits fully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the introduction of the four Labour Codes in India represents a transformative step towards reforming and strengthening labour laws in the country. These codes, which include the Code on Wages, 2019, the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020, and the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, 2020, are not only significant in their scale but also in their potential to create a more equitable, secure, and prosperous work environment for all.

These codes address various aspects of labour rights and welfare, with a primary goal of safeguarding the interests of workers, especially those in the unorganized sector. Some of the notable provisions include the establishment of a statutory right to minimum wages and timely wage payments, simplified definitions of ‘wages’ to reduce ambiguity, annual health check-ups and medical facilities to enhance worker well-being, and the mandatory issuance of appointment letters to formalize employment relationships.

Additionally, these codes recognize the changing nature of work and the emergence of gig workers and platform workers in new technology sectors. They lay the groundwork for social security schemes for these workers, funded through contributions from aggregators and government sources. This inclusivity extends the benefits of social security to unorganized workers, gig workers, and platform workers, along with their families.

Moreover, the codes promote fairness and job security by ensuring that fixed-term employment (FTE) workers are entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees. Workers are also granted enhanced rights, such as annual leave with wages and the option to encash leave. The extension of the Employees’ Provident Fund to all industries, irrespective of their scheduling, further underscores the government’s commitment to improving social security and labour welfare.

These labour codes are not just an exercise in legal reform; they signify a comprehensive shift towards better protection, security, and welfare for all workers in India. They aim to reduce disputes, ensure faster resolution of labour issues, and provide social security for workers across various sectors and backgrounds. By streamlining and consolidating labour laws, they reduce the compliance burden and contribute to economic and social development.

Furthermore, the specific focus on Inter-State Migrant Workers and women workers adds an essential dimension to these reforms. Provisions for Inter-State Migrant Workers enable them to gain legal identity and social security benefits, while women workers are granted rights to work at night with safety measures in place. The extension of maternity leave and mandatory crèche facilities underlines the commitment to women’s empowerment.

In essence, the four Labour Codes represent a holistic and forward-looking approach to labour reform. They aim to protect the interests of workers, reduce disputes, and promote social security and well-being. As India continues to evolve and diversify its labour force, these codes offer a promising foundation for a more inclusive, equitable, and secure work environment for all its workers. They signify a significant stride towards progress and prosperity in the labour sector, aligning with the nation’s aspirations for sustainable growth and inclusivity.

Written & Compiled by CA Sunil Kumar Gupta

Founder Chairman, SARC Associates

sunilkumargupta.com