Sat Nov 22 18:37:58 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article rewrite of the provided text:

Summary:

Tamil Nadu is grappling with the implementation of the Union government’s Code on Social Security (CSS), part of the four new Labour Codes enforced nationwide. The state government has reservations about the CSS because it potentially undermines Tamil Nadu’s existing, robust welfare system for unorganized workers. Tamil Nadu currently operates 18 welfare boards offering numerous benefits, which could be jeopardized or altered by the CSS’s division of responsibilities between the Union and State governments. Concerns exist regarding the continuation of existing state schemes in areas now designated for the Union government and the potential for overlapping functions. The Tamil Nadu government insists it will protect and strengthen workers’ interests during this transition.

News Article:

Tamil Nadu Faces Hurdles in Implementing National Social Security Code

CHENNAI – November 23, 2025 – The Tamil Nadu government is facing significant challenges in implementing the Union government’s Code on Social Security (CSS), one of the four new national Labour Codes now in effect. While the state has made progress in preparing for the other three Codes, concerns remain over the CSS’s impact on Tamil Nadu’s established welfare programs for unorganized workers.

For years, Tamil Nadu has operated 18 welfare boards that provide a wide range of benefits to workers in the unorganized sector, including education, marriage assistance, accident disability support, and pensions. These programs are underpinned by the Tamil Nadu Manual Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Work) Act, 1982, which the CSS effectively supersedes.

A key point of contention is the division of responsibilities between the Union and State governments under the CSS. The Union government is tasked with creating welfare schemes for life and disability cover, health and maternity benefits, old age protection, and education for unorganized workers. State governments are responsible for schemes related to provident funds, employment injury benefits, housing, educational programs for children, skill upgrades, funeral assistance, and old age homes.

This division raises questions about how Tamil Nadu can continue to fund and administer its existing, comprehensive welfare programs, particularly in areas now designated as the Union government’s responsibility. Concerns have been raised by activists and trade unionists, that the existing framework of schemes may get disturbed after implementation of the CSS.

“Tamil Nadu has a long and proud history of providing robust support to its unorganized workforce,” stated a senior government official. “Our priority is to ensure that the interests of these workers are not only safeguarded but strengthened throughout this transition.” The government has not yet drafted rules for the CSS amid ongoing discussions on how to proceed.

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