Haryana Charts Bold New Reforms: Women to Lead the Trillion-Dollar Growth Journey
Chandigarh, April 24, 2025 – What may seem like an ambitious dream for any state is becoming a structured mission in Haryana—driven by empowered women, streamlined governance, and next-generation technology. Despite comprising only 2 percent of India’s geographical area and population, Haryana has set an ambitious vision to be among the first states to aim for a trillion-dollar economic milestone—a feat currently achieved by only 19 countries globally. Recognizing that this vision requires unlocking untapped potential, the Chief Minister has placed women empowerment and technological innovation at the heart of this growth agenda.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has unveiled a series of strategic measures aimed at accelerating the state’s journey toward becoming a trillion-dollar economy. Emphasizing the transformative potential of women’s participation in the workforce and the integration of cutting-edge technology in governance, these measures mark a paradigm shift in Haryana’s development strategy.
Among the most notable reforms is the removal of legal and procedural hurdles that have historically restricted women from participating fully in the workforce. The Labour Department, under direct instructions from the Chief Minister, is amending existing Factory Rules to permit women—except for expecting and lactating mothers—to work in all sectors without limitations. This includes industries where night shifts were previously not accessible to women workers.
To further streamline processes and promote ease of doing business, a fully automated system for granting night shift permissions to commercial establishments and factories has been introduced. Employers can now apply online and receive approval by the next working day, eliminating months of delay and bureaucratic red tape. Standardized terms and conditions will apply across the board.
Additionally, existing restrictions on night shift employment have been eased. Employers are now allowed to pool resources and partner with nearby hospitals or nursing homes for medical support and emergency services. The requirement for mandatory deployment of women supervisors has been withdrawn. Senior women professionals in the IT and ITeS sectors earning over Rs 1 lakh per month may now attend night shifts without the need for a quorum.
Night shifts, previously restricted to select industries like IT, warehousing, and hospitality, will now be permitted across all sectors. This bold move is a significant step toward true gender parity in employment.
Furthering his vision of governance powered by innovation, the Chief Minister has also directed the Labour Department to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the Atal Shramik Kisan Canteens for advanced data management and analytics. Blockchain technology is also being explored for secure and tamper-proof data management related to sensitive worker information.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s women have historically been the backbone of the economy. Their strength, resilience, and industriousness are unparalleled. By empowering them and embracing innovation, the state is laying the foundation of a progressive, inclusive, and economically powerful Haryana.