The Government of Maharashtra is currently reviewing a significant proposal that could reshape the private sector work environment across the state. The labour department has suggested an amendment to extend the maximum daily working hours for private sector employees from the existing 9 hours to 10 hours.
Labour Minister Akash Fundkar confirmed that the proposal was formally presented during a recent cabinet meeting in Mumbai. The plan is undergoing a detailed evaluation process before the state government takes a final decision.
If implemented, the new regulation would require amendments to the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2017, the legislation that governs working hours, employee welfare, and workplace conditions in shops, hotels, commercial establishments, entertainment centers, and other private businesses across the state.
Balancing Economic Growth with Labour Welfare Minister Fundkar emphasized that the proposal is being examined not only from the perspective of enhancing productivity but also with consideration for employee welfare. “The government is mindful of both the need to boost business competitiveness and the importance of protecting workers’ rights. Any decision taken will strike a balance between economic requirements and social well-being,”.
The labour department has cited several reasons for the proposal, including the demand for greater operational flexibility by industries and businesses, especially in sectors where longer shifts could support efficiency and reduce costs. The state believes that extending permissible daily working hours could help companies optimize resources and adapt to evolving global business dynamics.
However, the government has clarified that such an extension would remain within the overall framework of the Factories Act and other central labour codes, ensuring that weekly work-hour limits, overtime compensation, and safety provisions are not compromised.
Legal and Structural Implications The current provisions under the 2017 Act cap daily working hours at nine and weekly working hours at 48, with specific provisions for rest intervals and overtime wages. A one-hour increase in daily work time would therefore necessitate amendments to the law, alongside new rules and notifications to safeguard workers’ interests.
Labour law experts note that while the move could bring Maharashtra in line with some other industrially progressive states that allow 10- or 12-hour shifts under certain conditions, it will require robust checks to prevent misuse. “The government will need to ensure strict enforcement of overtime pay, provision of weekly offs, and protection against extended consecutive shifts to avoid employee fatigue,” said a senior labour consultant.
Industry and Workforce Reactions The proposal has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders. Several business associations and industry chambers have welcomed the move, arguing that it will increase efficiency and reduce overheads, particularly for sectors such as retail, hospitality, IT-enabled services, and manufacturing. “With global markets demanding agility and extended service hours, this proposal could make Maharashtra more competitive as a business destination,” remarked a spokesperson from a leading industry body.
On the other hand, trade unions and employee groups have expressed concerns that the move could impose additional stress on workers without proportionate benefits. Representatives of several labour unions warned that longer shifts could affect employee health, work-life balance, and family life. They have demanded that any extension of working hours must be accompanied by strict guarantees on overtime compensation, health safeguards, and voluntary rather than compulsory implementation.
Road Ahead The state cabinet is expected to continue deliberations over the coming weeks, following which the labour department will draft the necessary amendment bill for consideration in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Extensive consultations with industry leaders, labour unions, and social organizations are also likely to be held before finalizing the framework.
Minister Fundkar reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency in the process. “We are open to dialogue with all stakeholders. This is not a decision we intend to rush into. The government will carefully weigh the economic advantages against the social implications before moving forward,”.
Broader Context The proposal comes at a time when India’s labour laws are undergoing modernization under the framework of the central labour codes, which aim to streamline regulations and improve the ease of doing business while safeguarding workers’ rights. States such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have recently amended their labour laws to provide greater flexibility in working hours, particularly for sectors like electronics, IT, and global services.
By considering similar measures, Maharashtra is seeking to maintain its competitive edge as one of India’s leading industrial and commercial hubs. The state government believes that reforms in labour regulations could help attract fresh investments, create jobs, and boost economic growth in a post-pandemic economy that demands greater adaptability.
