2025 reforms recap: four Labour Codes, next-gen GST
Asked by UPSCPrelims 2018, 2017Mains 2024 (GS3)3 PYQs
UPSC has already asked about this. Read the story with these questions in mind.
What happened
- PIB’s year-end note lists the 2025 reforms. Four Labour Codes replaced 29 laws and extend social security and workplace safety; next-gen GST simplified rates [PIB].
Background
- The Labour Codes cover wages, industrial relations, social security and occupational safety.
Why it matters
- Gig workers come under social security for the first time. States’ rules will decide how far that goes.
How to use this in Mains
- As per PIB (2025-12-30): PIB's year-end note lists the 2025 reforms. Four Labour Codes replaced 29 laws and extend social security and workplace safety; next-gen GST simplified rates.
- Gig workers come under social security for the first time. States' rules will decide how far that goes.
Quotable data pointPIB's year-end note lists the 2025 reforms.
PIB: PIB Backgrounder: 2025 Economic Reforms, 30 Dec 2025
Exam angle
UPSC
Prelims: Four Labour Codes. · Mains: Labour reforms.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Practice · UPSC
Laws merged into Labour Codes
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Number of codes
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Code covering gig workers
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Go deeper
ExplainerMSMEs in India: New Definition, Share in GDP and Jobs, Udyam, Key Schemes (CGTMSE, PMEGP, TReDS), Problems and Reforms (UPSC Notes + PYQs)ExplainerGoods and Services Tax (GST): 101st Amendment, CGST, SGST and IGST, GST Council, Rate Structure, Compensation and Issues (UPSC Notes + PYQs)
Official source: PIB: PIB Backgrounder: 2025 Economic Reforms, 30 Dec 2025
facts from cited sources only; faculty review pending