UP Enforces Amended Factories Act, Allows 12-Hour Workdays And Night Shifts For Women

Lucknow, Nov 13 (KNN) The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented the Factories (Amendment) Act following President Droupadi Murmu’s assent, introducing significant changes to industrial work regulations in the state.

According to the state government, the amendments are aimed at enhancing industrial productivity, employment generation, and ease of doing business, positioning Uttar Pradesh as a more competitive manufacturing destination.

Under the new provisions, factories may now extend daily working hours up to 12 hours, provided that total weekly work time does not exceed 48 hours. Workers may also engage in up to six hours of continuous work without an interval, subject to their written consent, reported PTI. 

In cases of increased production demand, the government may raise the quarterly overtime limit from 75 hours to 144 hours, with workers entitled to overtime pay at twice the regular wage rate.

A key reform allows women employees to work in 29 industries previously classified as hazardous, as well as in night shifts, contingent upon their consent and the implementation of safety and welfare measures by employers.

Principal Secretary (Labour) Atul Srivastava said the amendment will support the state’s goal of achieving a USD 1 trillion economy by driving industrial growth and expanding employment opportunities.

The government said the reforms align state labour laws with global production standards and support industrial modernization.

(KNN Bureau)