New Delhi, Nov. 26 -- The consolidation of 29 archaic labour laws into four comprehensive new codes-on wages, social security, industrial relations and occupational safety-is among the most significant structural reforms undertaken by India in the post-liberalization era.

For a nation struggling to formalize a vast and disparate workforce, this move promises simplification, universal coverage and better alignment between employer compliance and worker welfare. It marks a leap towards a predictable, dignity-assuring and future-ready labour ecosystem.

However, the efficacy of any legislation is measured not by its legislative elegance, but by its behavioural implementation. While the codes were designed to formalize informal work and empo...