Anant Goenka, Vice Chairman of RPG Group and President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), claims that the adoption of four labor codes, which combine 29 current regulations, constitutes a revolutionary reform for Indian industry and workers. Goenka called the long-awaited labor codes “excellent for the industry, for the workforce” in an exclusive interview. She highlighted a number of advantages, such as easier workforce migration, simpler compliance, improved safety and security protections, better retirement benefits, and provisions allowing women to work night shifts.
Goenka highlights clarity and efficiency in labour reforms
“The benefits are extremely high for businesses. It’s a simplification of ease of doing business and an important step and a lot of clarity on the way forward as well,” he further stated. Goenka maintained a moderate tone when addressing the ongoing controversy created by Infosys founder Narayana Murthy’s support for longer working hours akin to China’s 9-9-6 model. “I think to be successful, one has to work hard, work long hours, and put in a lot of effort. However, I think there is a balance to life, and I think that too should be respected by corporates as well,” he said, while emphasizing that the choice ultimately depends on one’s personal goals and achieving success in business demands dedication and hard work. Appreciating the recent reforms in income tax, GST, and labour laws as meaningful moves toward deregulation and simplification, Goenka also highlighted several areas where further government focus is needed.
The head of the FICCI urged reforms in other production variables, especially energy and land, pointing out that although labor reforms have advanced, more work is still required in these vital areas. “We would say that on energy and on land reform, there is something that more work can be done, and we look forward to working with the government on that front,” he further said.
Goenka urges states to align with Centre’s reforms for uniform ease of doing business
He emphasized in particular the need for more consistency in the ease of conducting business between states. Goenka highlighted the need of state-level action while acknowledging the central government’s constructive reform program, which includes its high-level task force and the Rs 1 lakh crore research and development budget under the National Manufacturing Mission.
“We would advise the state to take more action. “How can we see more uniformity, more action in terms of ease of doing business at the state level, while the center is very positive in terms of reform?” he asked, implying that policies like self-certification could be implemented more broadly.
