Rajasthan bans Child Labor below 14 and Night work for Teens

Why in News?

Recently Rajasthan’s chief minister announced the approval of 2 key labour reforms as a step towards enhancing the work environment and promoting economic growth.

• The recent reforms
  1. The Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025,
  2. Rajasthan Factory (Amendment) Rules, 2025.
• Objectives – Creating a "progressive and safe working environment" in Rajasthan.
• Balance in promoting trade and ensuring the dignity, health and safety of every worker.
• Key changes in Shops and Commercial Establishments Ordinance –
• Complete ban on child labour below 14 years in shops and commercial settings.
  • Previously Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments Act of 1958, allowed limited 3-hour work/day for adolescents aged 12-15.
• Increase in minimum apprentice age from 12 to 14 years.
• Adolescents (14-18 years) prohibited from night work to protect education and health.
• Maximum daily work hours raised from 9 to 10 hours.
• Quarterly overtime limit increased from 126 to 144 hours.
• Expected to enhance operational flexibility and productivity in service and retail sectors.
• Key changes in Factory Amendment Rules – Focuses on women's safety, dignity, and workforce participation.
• Improve employment conditions for women in factories.
• Women (except pregnant/nursing) allowed to work if safety measures are ensured.
• Employers must provide protective equipment like respirators, masks, gloves.
• Ensure safe air quality in workplaces.
• Mandatory regular safety training for all employees.

Reference

Times of India| Rajasthan’s Labour Reforms