India's Labour Codes Silent on Climate Change and Heat Risks
India's Labour Codes Silent on Climate Change and Heat Risks
IN · Published Oct 2, 2026
• India's new labour codes, implemented in November 2025, fail to address climate change and extreme heat, despite the country experiencing its warmest years on record.
• The codes, designed to simplify labour laws, exclude protections for informal workers, who make up over 90% of the workforce.

Impact & Risks

The absence of climate considerations in India's labour codes disproportionately affects informal workers, particularly women, who face greater financial and health burdens during heatwaves. Studies show that heatwave days lead to a 40% drop in net earnings for slum workers in Delhi, alongside increased medical expenses. Street vendors report losing customers and taking on debt during extreme heat. The lack of effective use of welfare funds further exacerbates the vulnerability of these workers, leaving them without adequate support during climate-related disruptions.

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