The Ministry of Labour and Employment has issued a fresh notification extending the classification of services in several industrial undertakings under the Ministry of Finance as public utility services under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. The extension will be in effect for six more months starting from July 30, 2025, until January 29, 2026.
This move has been made under the proviso to sub-clause (vi) of clause (n) of Section 2 of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, in light of the government’s assessment that public interest demands uninterrupted functioning of these crucial undertakings.
Key Highlights of the Notification:
- Issuing Authority: Ministry of Labour and Employment
- Legal Basis: Section 2(n)(vi) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
- Duration of Extension: 6 months (From July 30, 2025 to January 29, 2026)
Undertakings Covered Under the Extension:
The following entities under the Ministry of Finance will continue to be considered public utility services:
- India Government Mints – Located in Kolkata, Noida, Mumbai, and Hyderabad
- India Security Press – Nashik
- Security Printing Press – Hyderabad
- Security Paper Mill – Hoshangabad
- Bank Note Press – Dewas
- Currency Note Press – Nashik Road
These units play a vital role in currency production and national economic stability, and disruptions in their functioning could have significant consequences.
Why This Matters:
Declaring a service as a public utility under the Industrial Disputes Act implies that:
- Strikes are subject to prior notice of at least 14 days.
- Conciliation proceedings can continue for up to 60 days.
- Strikes during conciliation or adjudication are illegal.
This framework ensures uninterrupted operations, particularly in sectors deemed critical for national interest.