The Gujarat Legislative Assembly on Tuesday unanimously passed the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aimed at modernising labour regulations to support economic growth. The Bill revises working hours, overtime limits, and the threshold for applicability, while retaining safeguards for women employees.

Labour and Employment Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya presented the Bill, emphasizing that the amendments address evolving economic and social conditions, balancing the interests of workers, traders, employers, and the public. Under the revised law, shops and establishments employing 20 or more workers will fall under its purview, up from the previous threshold of 10, while smaller establishments must only provide online intimation.

The Bill increases the daily working hours limit from nine to ten hours and extends the maximum continuous work without a break from five to six hours. Overtime limits have been raised from 125 to 144 hours per quarter, allowing businesses greater flexibility and boosting productivity. Bavaliya highlighted that these changes would enhance customer convenience and contribute to accelerated economic activity.

Provisions related to women’s employment have been strengthened. Women may work between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. with consent, provided the workplace ensures adequate facilities such as restrooms, crèches, separate toilets, safe transport, and protection against sexual harassment. The minister underscored that these measures safeguard dignity, safety, and inclusivity while expanding employment opportunities for women.

The amendments align with the Gujarat government’s broader vision of “Minimum Government and Maximum Governance” and the national goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. Bavaliya noted that these reforms would make compliance easier for small traders and startups, fostering a conducive environment for economic development while maintaining worker welfare.