The government of Uttar Pradesh has adopted a historic decision aimed at ensuring the safety, health, and improving working conditions for workers in the state. At the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the 'Uttar Pradesh Workers Protection, Health, and Working Conditions Bill-2026' was officially approved.
Under these new rules, it is now mandatory for all factories, shops, and commercial enterprises employing at least 10 employees to provide written employment contracts to their workers. However, workers engaged in agriculture and domestic work are currently excluded from the scope of these regulations.
The new law places special emphasis on the health of laborers. Employers are now obligated to pay for annual free medical examinations for workers. Furthermore, the enterprise owner is responsible for providing personal protective equipment, assessing potential risks, as well as ensuring drinking water, toilets, showers, rest rooms, a canteen, and first aid.
The new regulatory framework also includes important provisions for female employees. Women can now work in all types of establishments based on their own consent. They will be permitted to work night shifts provided that necessary safety measures guaranteed by the employer are observed.
Additionally, to limit the subcontracting system, a strict provision was introduced for the first time, prohibiting the hiring of contract workers for the core activities of any enterprise.
To simplify business operations, employers will now have access to a 'single registration' service and a unified license document instead of needing to obtain various registrations. All types of licenses, registration documents, and information can be submitted online through electronic channels. Special provisions have also been introduced for internal migrants and construction workers to ensure their well-being.