In a move aimed at safeguarding public interest and ensuring uninterrupted industrial operations, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has officially declared the Copper Mining industry as a Public Utility Service under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, for a fresh period of six months.
The notification, issued on 9th June 2025 , states that the declaration will be effective from the date of publication in the Official Gazette and will remain in force for six months ( December 9, 2025 )
Background and Context
- Copper mining is listed under Item 13 of the First Schedule to the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.
- The sector had previously been declared a public utility service via Notification S.O. 4828(E) dated 6th November 2024, valid for six months.
- That declaration expired without extension.
- The government now reaffirms that public interest necessitates the continuation of this classification.
Implications of the Declaration
Under this declaration:
- The copper mining industry is subject to stricter conditions for strikes and lockouts.
- Workers in the industry must give prior notice before going on strike, and similar conditions apply to employers initiating lockouts.
- This is intended to ensure continuous operation in a sector deemed vital to public interest and the economy.
Government’s Stand
The Central Government stated it is “satisfied that public interest so requires” the designation of the copper mining sector as a public utility, which grants it protection under special provisions of the Industrial Disputes Act to prevent abrupt disruption in services.
This designation ensures that essential services in the mining sector continue without interruption, particularly crucial given the industry’s role in supplying raw materials for key industrial and infrastructure development.
The declaration remains valid for six months from publication which is (December 9, 2025) after which the Ministry may consider extending or revising the status based on prevailing conditions.
