The Maharashtra government is evaluating a significant revision to private sector working hours, proposing an increase from the existing nine-hour limit to a 10-hour workday. Labour Minister Akash Fundkar revealed that this measure was introduced during a recent state cabinet meeting in Mumbai and is currently under deliberation. No final decision has been made, as additional review and feedback are being sought.

Key Elements Under Consideration

The proposed amendments to the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2017 include several notable changes:

• Maximum Workday: Increase from 9 to 10 hours per day for private sector workers.
• Overtime Cap: Extension of permissible overtime from the current 125 to 144 hours within a three-month timeframe.
• Continuous Work Provisions: Revised guidelines requiring mandatory breaks, such as a half-hour rest after six hours of continuous work.
• Expanded Coverage: Inclusion of establishments with up to 20 employees under the act’s purview, covering more small businesses.
• Women’s Employment: Once new labour codes are finalized, women could be permitted to work late shifts, potentially enhancing employment flexibility.

Minister Fundkar emphasized that the move aims to align Maharashtra’s labour norms with global standards and address the frequent issue of employees working extra hours without appropriate compensation. He reiterated that the proposal remains in its discussion phase and requires further assessment before any action is taken.

Context and Rationale

Officials have highlighted that many private sector workers often exceed prescribed working hours without due compensation—prompting the government to explore legal adjustments. Expanding coverage to more businesses seeks to ensure better compliance and protection.

Similar efforts by the Maharashtra government—such as considering staggered office hours—were previously aimed at alleviating pressure on Mumbai’s overcrowded suburban railway network.