India Labour Code Updates: PF Rules, EWS Rail Reservation, EPF Ceiling

Key labour changes in 2026
- *Exempt PF trusts*: New rules under the Labour Codes allow employers to declare higher interest rates on exempt PF accounts. (source)
- *EWS reservation in Railways*: The Ministry of Railways will reserve positions for Economically Weaker Sections, aligning with recent minimum‑wage notifications. (source)
- *EPF wage ceiling*: The contribution ceiling rises to Rs 25,000, increasing employer and employee PF contributions and affecting salary structures. (source)

Sector impacts
- *Gig workers*: New provisions in the Code on Social Security aim to extend basic protections, but implementation gaps remain. (source)
- *Diamond industry*: Workers in Surat demand higher wages from GJEPC amid stagnant pay. (source)
- *Gold prices*: 24‑carat gold fell to Rs 15,200 per 10 g, reflecting global rate‑rise concerns. (source)
- *Legislative bills*: A liquor‑ban bill and amendments to the Minimum Wages Act are pending in the J&K Assembly, adding to the reform agenda. (source)
- *Unorganised workers*: Street vendors and small‑site construction laborers remain outside many labour‑code protections. (source)