International Labour Day 2025, Date, History, All Things You Need To Know

Every year on May 1, the world observes International Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, to recognize and honour the contributions of workers across all sectors. More than just a celebration, the day underscores the importance of workers’ rights, fair labour practices, and the need for safe and equitable workplaces. In 2025, the observance is particularly significant as it overlaps with efforts to enhance labour protections globally amid modern workplace challenges like automation and informal employment.

Why in the news?

International Labour Day 2025 will be celebrated worldwide on Thursday, 1st May 2025. Dedicated to recognising the efforts, sacrifices, and achievements of the global workforce, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the historic struggles that shaped the rights and protections workers enjoy today.

Historical Background

• The roots of International Labour Day lie in the late 19th-century labour movement in the United States. On May 1, 1886, thousands of American workers began a nationwide strike demanding an eight-hour workday.
• The movement reached a tragic peak during the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where a bomb blast led to the deaths of seven police officers and at least four civilians. In 1889, the Second International declared May 1 as International Workers’ Day to commemorate this historic struggle.

Labour Day in India

• First celebrated in India in 1923 in Chennai (then Madras) by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, led by Comrade Singaravelu Chettiar. The red flag symbolizing labour rights was used for the first time in this event.
• The day also coincides with Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day, which mark the formation of these states in 1960.

Interesting Facts About Labour Day

• Despite originating in the US, Labour Day is not observed on May 1 in the United States and Canada—they celebrate it on the first Monday of September.
• Over 80 countries officially observe Labour Day on May 1.
• Canada’s first Labour Day celebration took place in 1872, predating the US observance.
• The colour red is globally associated with labour movements and is often used in rallies and events.

Labour Laws in India – Structure and Reforms

• India’s labour law framework has undergone major consolidation in recent years.
• The Four Labour Codes
• Code on Wages, 2019 – Regulates minimum wages, payment of wages, bonus, and equal remuneration.
• Industrial Relations Code, 2020 – Deals with trade unions, strikes, and worker-employer dispute resolution.
• Social Security Code, 2020 – Covers PF, ESI, maternity benefits, gratuity, and gig worker welfare.
• Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 – Ensures workplace safety, health standards, and working hours.

Constitutional and Legal Provisions for Labour Rights in India

• Article 23 & 24: Prohibit forced labour and child labour.
• Article 39: Advocates for equal pay for equal work.
• Article 41 & 43: Right to work, secure employment, and living wage.

India has ratified key ILO conventions,

• Convention 138 (Minimum Age)
• Convention 182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour)

Key Labour Rights in India

• Right to fair wages and timely payments
• Right to safe working conditions
• Right to form and join trade unions
• Right to social security benefits
• Protection against discrimination at the workplace

Major Government Initiatives

• e-Shram Portal: National database for unorganised workers.
• PM Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana: Pension scheme for informal workers.
• MGNREGA: Provides 100 days of wage employment to rural households.
• National Career Service (NCS): Platform for job seekers and employers.

Significance of Labour Day 2025

• Reinforces Workers’ Rights: Calls for humane working hours, dignity, and job security.
• Celebrates Past Achievements: Progress in social protections and workplace safety.
• Global Solidarity: A day for unity among workers worldwide.
• Highlights New Challenges: Automation, gig economy, climate change, and remote work.
• Encourages Reforms: Pushes for effective enforcement of new labour codes and inclusive labour growth.