January 2025 Policy Updates
- samyaknagar2704
- Feb 24
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 25
West Bengal Launches Online Compliance Dashboard for Labour Laws
The Government of West Bengal introduced an Online Compliance Dashboard on October 1, 2024, aimed at streamlining labour law compliance. This centralized platform, part of the Business Reform Action Plan 2024, offers real-time tracking of applications, registrations, license renewals, and statutory dues. Designed for businesses, workers, and regulatory authorities, the dashboard enhances transparency and accountability in labour law processes. It also tracks timelines for approvals and payments, reducing delays and promoting efficiency. By providing easier access to compliance information, the initiative fosters a business-friendly environment while ensuring adherence to legal requirements. This move reflects West Bengal’s commitment to improving governance and supporting stakeholders through modernized, technology-driven solutions.
EPFO Clarifies Rules on Reserve Funds for Interest Payments
On October 7, 2024, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) issued a circular clarifying the use of reserves and surplus funds by exempted provident fund trusts. The directive prohibits using these funds to credit interest at rates exceeding those declared by the EPFO. Reserves and surplus funds are intended to ensure the long-term financial stability of provident fund trusts and safeguard future beneficiaries’ interests. Allowing their use for immediate distribution could jeopardize trust sustainability and impact future liabilities. The circular emphasizes maintaining financial prudence to protect the provident fund system’s integrity. This guidance aims to ensure consistent compliance by exempted establishments while reinforcing the stability of the social security system.
Haryana Introduces EODB Dashboard for Labour Law Applications
The Government of Haryana launched an Ease of Doing Business (EODB) dashboard on October 15, 2024, to enhance transparency and efficiency in labour law compliance. The dashboard provides real-time updates on applications, timelines for approvals, registrations, renewals, and statutory fee payments. It covers critical labour laws, including the Factories Act, Contract Labour Act, and Building and Other Construction Workers Act. Accessible to the public, the dashboard aligns with the state’s Business Reform Action Plan 2024 and complements national labour code reforms. This initiative aims to simplify processes for businesses, ensure compliance with labour regulations, and foster a transparent and accountable regulatory environment in Haryana.
Color-Coded UDID Cards Introduced for Disability Rights
On October 16, 2024, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment amended the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules, 2017, introducing colour-coded Unique Disability Identity (UDID) cards. These cards classify disabilities into three bands: white for below 40%, yellow for 40%-79%, and blue for 80% and above. The updated system aims to improve service delivery and recognition for persons with disabilities. Aadhaar can now serve as proof of identity and address, streamlining the application process for disability certificates and UDID cards. Additionally, the amended rules mandate issuing disability documentation within three months of diagnosis. To address application delays, cases pending over two years due to non-medical authority issues must be resubmitted or reactivated.
Haryana Mandates Annual SHWW Report Submissions
The Government of Haryana, on November 4, 2024, mandated all organizations to submit annual reports under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, by February 28, 2025. The reports must include details of complaints received, actions taken, and cases reported. Submissions must adhere to official guidelines and be sent to the designated email address. Non-compliance will result in penalties of ₹50,000. This directive aims to enforce accountability and transparency in addressing workplace sexual harassment. By emphasizing timely reporting, Haryana seeks to ensure a safe working environment for women and uphold the provisions of the SHWW Act effectively.
EPFO Extends Deadlines for UAN Activation Under ELI Scheme
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) extended the deadline for Universal Account Number (UAN) activation and Aadhaar linkage under the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme. Initially set for December 15, 2024, the deadline is now January 15, 2025. The ELI Scheme, introduced in the 2024 Union Budget, aims to promote formal sector employment by providing benefits to first-time employees through a Direct Benefit Transfer mechanism. The EPFO circular emphasizes the necessity of UAN activation and Aadhaar linkage to ensure timely benefit disbursement. Employees covered by the EPFO must complete the process to access services such as viewing provident fund passbooks and filing online claims. This extension provides additional time for compliance while supporting workforce integration efforts.
Kerala Extends Factory License Validity to 10 Years
On November 23, 2024, the Government of Kerala extended the validity of factory licenses from five to ten years by amending Rule 7(5) of the Kerala Factories Rules, 1957. The notification, published in the Official Gazette, aims to reduce administrative burden and promote operational ease for industries. By prolonging the license validity period, the state seeks to create a business-friendly environment, enhance compliance efficiency, and provide long-term benefits to factory owners. This policy update reflects Kerala’s commitment to fostering industrial growth and simplifying regulatory processes.
Kerala Exempts Factory License Transfer Fees in Specific Cases
The Government of Kerala amended the Kerala Factories Rules on November 27, 2024, to exempt factories from paying license transfer fees in certain situations. These include financial crises, labour shortages, or environmental constraints leading to factory closures. The exemption applies only when a competent authority certifies the conditions, and a nominal amendment fee is required. This policy aims to support industrial recovery by alleviating financial burdens on struggling factories, fostering a more adaptive and supportive regulatory framework.
Karnataka Enhances Social Security for Unorganized Workers
On December 3, 2024, Karnataka amended the Unorganized Workers Social Security Rules to strengthen welfare provisions for unorganized workers. The updated rules streamline registration and eligibility criteria, enabling broader access to benefits like health insurance, pensions, and maternity aid. A unified digital registry for workers will ensure real-time updates and transparency. Mechanisms for grievance redressal have also been introduced, improving accountability and addressing disputes effectively. These amendments align with the broader goals of the Unorganized Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008, ensuring better implementation of social security measures and fostering inclusivity within the state’s labour policies.
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