Maharashtra Proposes 10-Hour Workday for Private Sector Employees
The Maharashtra government is considering increasing the maximum working hours for employees in private establishments from nine to 10 hours a day, with several other changes to the 2017 Shops and Establishments Act.
MaharashtraWorking HoursPrivate SectorLabour LawsShops And Establishments ActReal Estate MaharashtraAug 27, 2025
A presentation on these proposed changes was made by the state labour department before the state cabinet in a recent meeting. While the matter was discussed, the cabinet has sought more clarity on the proposal before making a final decision.
It is understood that the labour department is looking to make around five major changes in the 2017 legislation, with the most significant being the increase in work hours. The proposed amendment in section 12 of the Act states that no adult worker will be required or allowed to work in any establishment for more than 10 hours on any day. Additionally, it is proposed that an adult be allowed to work over six hours at a stretch only if a half-hour break is included in that time. Currently, the longest stretch an employee works for is five hours.
The department has also proposed to increase the period of overtime for an employee from 125 to 144 hours in three months. Today, the maximum working hours in a day are capped at 10.5 hours (including overtime), which is proposed to be increased to 12 hours. In case of urgent work, the maximum working hours per day, which is 12 hours, are proposed to be removed, thereby setting no maximum limit to work hours.
The provisions of this Act will apply to establishments employing 20 and more employees. As of now, the legislation is applicable to establishments having 10 and more employees.
The ministers wanted more clarity on the provisions and their impact, and hence the decision was put on hold. Officials said the proposal was made following the long-pending demand from the sector.
These changes aim to balance the needs of businesses and the well-being of employees. However, the impact on labor rights and work-life balance remains a point of concern for many stakeholders. The government is expected to conduct further consultations and assessments before finalizing the amendments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current maximum working hours for employees in private establishments in Maharashtra?
Currently, the maximum working hours for employees in private establishments in Maharashtra is nine hours a day.
What changes is the Maharashtra government proposing to the working hours?
The Maharashtra government is proposing to increase the maximum working hours from nine to 10 hours a day, with additional changes to overtime and break periods.
Will the proposed changes affect all private establishments?
The proposed changes will apply to establishments employing 20 or more employees, as opposed to the current threshold of 10 employees.
What is the proposed break requirement for working over six hours at a stretch?
The proposal includes a requirement for a 30-minute break if an adult worker is allowed to work over six hours at a stretch.
What is the current cap on overtime hours, and how will it change?
Currently, the maximum overtime hours are capped at 125 hours in three months. The proposal seeks to increase this to 144 hours.
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