05/09/2026
India's new labour codes have a climate blindspot. The four labour codes do not explicitly mention climate change, even though extreme heat, floods and other weather events affect workers' safety, health, productivity and incomes.
States are formulating rules to implement the codes, but only Chandigarh addresses heat stress directly, with provisions for core-body-temperature monitoring and yearly kidney ultrasounds for exposed workers.
The gap is particularly significant for women workers. A 2024 study found that women informal workers face a three-fold higher risk of heat-related illness and a 2.7-fold higher risk of reduced kidney function compared with men working in similar heat conditions.
Women are also concentrated in sectors such as agriculture, domestic work, manufacturing, education and healthcare, many of which leave them more exposed to climate risks.
Our review of labour rules and draft rules across 36 states and Union territories found that none specify a general temperature standard or require changes in working hours in response to heatwaves or extreme weather.
As extreme weather becomes more frequent, experts say labour protections need to account for the different risks faced by workers, particularly women and those in informal employment.
What should labour laws do to protect workers from climate-related risks?
Read this report by Rohini Krishnamurthy on the climate blindspot in India's new labour codes: https://www.isignal.in/governance/the-climate-blindspot-in-indias-new-labour-codes-989317
