In a move aimed at promoting gender equality at the workplace and enhancing the Ease of Doing Business, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has notified new rules allowing women to work in night shifts in all shops and commercial establishments across the state.
The notification, issued by the Labour, Employment & Overseas Placement Department on 31st July 2025, supersedes an earlier notification dated 5th July 2025 and comes into force with immediate effect.
✅ Key Provisions of the Notification
Night Shift Timings:
Women workers can now be engaged between 7:00 PM and 7:00 AM in any shop or commercial establishment.
Working Hours:
Women employees may be allowed to work more than 8 hours per day, but not exceeding 48 hours per week.
Maternity Benefits:
All eligible women employees must be given maternity benefits in accordance with the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
Safety Measures:
- Mandatory CCTV surveillance during night shifts.
- Proper lighting in all work areas.
- First-Aid facilities must be available on-site.
- Toilets, washrooms, and drinking water facilities must be accessible and close to the workplace.
Workplace Conditions:
The employer must ensure a safe, secure, and healthy environment, and women should not be placed at any disadvantage in relation to their employment.
Sexual Harassment Compliance:
Establishments must comply with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Reporting Requirements:
Employers must submit quarterly electronic returns to the Labour Inspector, detailing women employees engaged during night shifts.
Future Guidelines:
The State Government may specify additional conditions from time to time.
⚖️ Legal Basis
This policy has been enacted under Section 27 of the Himachal Pradesh Shops & Commercial Establishments Act, 1969, which allows the state to grant exemptions and impose conditions related to working hours and labour regulations.
🎯 Policy Goals
The government stated that the move is intended to:
- Promote women’s participation in the workforce,
- Ensure gender parity in employment opportunities,
- Support compliance reduction, and
- Foster a more progressive and deregulated business environment in the state.