The Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoL&E) on January 31, 2024, issued an Advisory for Employers to Promote Women's Workforce Participation (Gender Equality & Promoting Women’s Economic Empowerment).
The following has been stated: -
•The Government of India has prioritised women's empowerment and has undertaken several measures to improve women’s participation in the labour force. Many policies, programmes and initiatives have been implemented in recent years to improve the education and livelihood of citizens of the country, particularly women. An indicative list of initiatives taken by the Government of India to improve the economic livelihood of women is annexed with this advisory.
•The labour laws in India cover a wide range of provisions to address various aspects of employment and to safeguard the rights and well-being of women workers.
•These provisions collectively aim to establish a supportive and secure working environment for the specific needs and challenges of women workers. The comprehensive measures include restrictions on night shifts, provisions for suitable seating arrangements, and facilities for personal hygiene, acknowledging the distinctive requirements of women in the workforce.
•Employers are essential stakeholders in creating a workplace that prioritizes the well-being and equitable treatment of women workers. Employers must be well-informed about and strictly adhere to these provisions, fostering an atmosphere that safeguards the health, safety, and dignity of women in the workplace
The detailed notification is given in the document attached below.