Work Hours: Provision to work 12 hours a day instead of 9; Important decision in the cabinet meeting

The state government has made a significant decision related to workers and the industrial sector in Maharashtra. The cabinet has approved an increase in working hours in factories and shops in the state. Previously, the daily working hours in factories were 9, which have now been increased to 12. This amendment has been made under Section 65 of the Factories Act 1948. Additionally, the break period, which was previously 30 minutes after 5 hours, will now be 30 minutes after 6 hours.

According to the new rules, working hours in shops have been increased from 9 to 10. The working period for employees assigned urgent work has been extended from 10.5 to 12 hours. Additionally, under Section 56, weekly working hours have been increased from 48 to 60.

There has been a significant change regarding overtime as well, with the limit increased from 115 hours to 144 hours. This will provide workers with more financial benefits for extra work. However, factories cannot make these changes without government approval. Labor Minister Akash Fundkar clarified that the basic limit of 48 hours per week cannot be exceeded. Additionally, if extra work is taken, it will be mandatory to provide workers with appropriate compensation and paid leave benefits.

The state government claims that these changes, in line with the central government's Ease of Doing Business policy, will provide the industrial sector with more flexibility and a planned, transparent system for workers.