India: Contract of Employment

The Indian employment landscape has undergone significant transformation with the formal recognition of Fixed-Term Employment under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020 and Code on Social Security, 2020. As businesses increasingly adopt flexible workforce models across manufacturing, IT, retail, and e-commerce sectors, understanding the legal framework, employee rights, and corporate compliance obligations becomes essential to avoid disputes and maintain transparent employer-employee relationships.

The Bombay High Court’s Nagpur Bench, in a judgement delivered in February 2026 has significant implications for how employers across sectors structure and administer maternity leave.

The Government of India, on 30 December 2025, has published Draft Rules under all four Labour Codes for public consultation, inviting comments and suggestions within 45 days (30 days for IR Code Rules).