Night Shifts for Women, Model Schools Galore: Odisha’s Game-Changing Reforms Unveiled

In a bid to attract new investments and stimulate industrial growth, the Odisha government has approved significant amendments to its labour laws. The decisions were taken during the State Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan on Monday. The reforms aim to enhance factory production and increase workers’ income through extended overtime provisions.

Labour Law Reforms: Longer Hours and Better Pay

The amendments to the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1956, and the Factories Act, 1948, bring several major changes:

• Compulsory Odia Signboards: All establishments with 20 or more employees must display signboards in Odia.

• Extended Working Hours: Daily working hours have been raised from 9 to 10, with quarterly overtime limits increased from 115 to 144 hours.

• Double Wages for Overtime: Employees working beyond 10 hours a day or 48 hours a week will receive double wages for the extra time.

• Round-the-Clock Operations: Establishments can now operate 24×7 throughout the year.

• Conditional 12-Hour Shifts: The government may extend daily working hours to 12, provided mandatory breaks and safety conditions are met.

• Night Shifts for Women: The earlier prohibition has been lifted, subject to women’s written consent and strict adherence to safety measures.

Godabarish Adarsh Vidyalaya Yojana: ₹12,000 Crore for Education

The Cabinet also cleared the Godabarish Adarsh Vidyalaya Yojana, with a budgetary allocation of ₹12,000 crore for the establishment of 2,200 model schools at the gram panchayat level. The project, to be implemented over three years (2025-26 to 2027-28), allocates ₹5 crore per school. These schools aim to strengthen rural education infrastructure and provide quality learning opportunities.

Maa Tarini Peeth Development: Transforming into a Tourist Hub

Another major decision was the approval of ₹226 crore for the transformation of Maa Tarini Peeth at Ghatagaon into a premier tourist destination. The contract, valued at ₹146 crore (excluding GST), has been awarded to Dillip Construction Pvt Ltd for peripheral development across a 59.206-acre area.

Key features of the project include:

• Yatri Niwas with 216 beds

• Food Plaza for visitors

• Watchtower and other peripheral facilities

The project is expected to be completed within 24 months, boosting tourism and local employment.

Government’s Vision: Jobs, Education, and Cultural Tourism

Chief Minister Majhi and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja stated that these initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to job creation, educational advancement, and cultural tourism development. With labour reforms, model schools, and heritage site development, Odisha aims to create a balanced growth model for both industry and society.