Uttar Pradesh Factories Amendment Act Enforced to Extend Daily Working Hours to 12

The Uttar Pradesh Factories Amendment Act enables the government to extend daily working hours to 12, aiming to boost industrial growth and create more jobs. Key provisions include overtime pay and allowing women workers to take night shifts with consent.

The Uttar Pradesh Factories Amendment Act has been implemented following President Droupadi Murmu's approval. This development is expected to boost industrial growth, increase production capacity, and create more jobs, according to the state government. The new law allows for extended working hours in factories, with a maximum of 12 hours per day, as long as the total does not exceed 48 hours weekly.

Extended Working Hours and Overtime

Under the revised provisions, workers can now work up to six continuous hours without a break if they agree in writing. In situations where there is an exceptional workload, the state government can increase the quarterly overtime limit from 75 to 144 hours. This change aims to provide flexibility in managing production demands while ensuring workers' rights are respected.

Night Shifts for Women Workers

A significant aspect of this amendment is the provision allowing women to work night shifts. This is contingent upon their written consent and adherence to all safety and health regulations. This measure is designed to promote gender equality in the workplace while ensuring a safe working environment for female employees.

Workers who exceed the standard daily working hours will receive overtime pay at twice their regular rate. This ensures fair compensation for additional work and aligns with labour rights standards. The amendment aims to make Uttar Pradesh more competitive in industrial development.

Principal Secretary Labour Atul Srivastava stated that these changes will enhance Uttar Pradesh's competitiveness in industrial development. The amendment supports the state's ambition of becoming a USD 1 trillion economy by strengthening its industrial capabilities and workforce productivity.

With inputs from PTI