Abstract
This article examines the transition from legacy labour regulations to the new Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH) Code in India. While legal consolidations often focus on administrative efficiency, this piece prioritises the human element—exploring how the new code impacts worker dignity, health and gender parity. By contrasting the historical ‘paper-only’ compliance culture in India with stringent international standards, like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the analysis highlights the shift from transactional compliance to a relational social contract. Key focus areas include the formalisation of the informal workforce through appointment letters, the proactive approach to preventive healthcare, the modernisation of workplace definitions and the inclusion of the gig economy.
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