Delhi invites public input on Draft Social Security Rules: A step towards inclusive labour reform

In a move that highlights the commitment to participatory governance and modern labour reform, the Government of NCT of Delhi has officially invited public feedback on the Draft Delhi Code on Social Security Rules, 2025. The Labour Department issued the notification on August 12, 2025, setting September 25, 2025 as the final date for submission of objections and suggestions. This development marks a pivotal moment in Delhi’s ongoing efforts to operationalize the Code on Social Security, 2020, in a manner that reflects the city’s unique workforce dynamics and welfare needs.

The draft rules are designed to streamline and consolidate multiple labour welfare schemes under one umbrella, ensuring better coverage, transparency, and digital efficiency in the administration of benefits. Once finalized, the Delhi Social Security Rules are expected to define crucial frameworks for provident fund contributions, employee state insurance, maternity benefits, and welfare boards for unorganised workers. The rules also aim to make the registration and benefit disbursal process more accessible by leveraging online platforms reducing paperwork and making compliance easier for employers and establishments.

For Delhi’s diverse workforce ranging from gig workers and construction labourers to private-sector employees these rules could be transformative. They aim to extend the reach of social protection measures to previously underserved groups, ensuring that every worker has access to healthcare, pension, and income security. Employers, on the other hand, will benefit from clearer compliance procedures and digitized submissions, aligning with the national “Ease of Doing Business” agenda.

Analysis:

By opening the draft for public comment, the Delhi government has ensured that this reform remains consultative rather than top-down. This period of feedback provides a valuable opportunity for employers’ associations, trade unions, legal experts, and civil society organizations to help shape a policy framework that is both progressive and practical.

As the submission deadline approaches, stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft carefully and share constructive feedback. With Delhi positioning itself as a frontrunner in the implementation of labour codes, this exercise could set the tone for how other states approach inclusive and future-ready social security governance in India.