The Meghalaya assembly has passed the Factories (Meghalaya Amendment) Bill, 2025, easing the restrictions on women working in factories.
The bill was introduced by Shakliar Warjri, who leads the state’s Department of Labour, Employment, and Skill Development. As per the amendment, women can now work before 6 AM and after 7 PM, provided that safety and other conditions are met.
As per the bill, the state government can now mandate safeguards for the health and safety of women who are at risk in certain factory operations. Through this new amendment, the Meghalaya government has highlighted its commitment to women’s equality in the workforce and enhancing employment opportunities, while keeping safety in mind.
The Factories (Meghalaya Amendment) Bill, 2025, is one of the many amendments that the Meghalaya government is working on for the development of the state.
Law Minister M Ampareen Lyngdoh introduced the Meghalaya Decriminalisation (Amendment of Provisions and Repealing) Bill, 2025, that will decriminalise minor offences and rationalise penalties. The bill aims to create a business-friendly environment through these concessions.
In a similar move, Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma presented the Meghalaya Private Colleges (Promotion and Regulation) Bill, 2025, with the aim of regulating private colleges, ensuring transparency and accountability. The bill outlines a framework for government grants-in-aid to eligible institutions.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar also introduced amendments to the Meghalaya Town and Country Planning Act, 2025. Through this, he means to address the need for structured urban development in response to increasing urbanisation.
