International Labour Day, also known as May Day, is observed worldwide on May 1st each year, celebrating the contributions and achievements of workers across all sectors. This day not only honors the dedication of laborers but also serves as a reminder of the importance of fair employment practices and the ongoing fight for workers' rights. As we approach International Labour Day 2025, let’s explore its origins, significance, and how it is celebrated around the world.
Each year, a new theme is announced for International Labour Day, focusing on critical issues related to workers' rights. However, as of now, the theme for 2025 has yet to be revealed. The historical roots of International Labour Day can be traced back to the American labor movement of the late 19th century. The date of May 1st was chosen to commemorate a nationwide strike for an eight-hour workday that began in 1886. Unfortunately, this pivotal event led to the tragic Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where a peaceful labor demonstration turned violent, resulting in the deaths of seven police officers and at least four civilians.
The Haymarket Affair is a significant moment in the history of Labour Day. On May 1, 1886, workers gathered in Haymarket Square to advocate for an eight-hour workday. The peaceful protest escalated into chaos when a bomb was thrown, leading to violence that claimed lives on both sides. This incident has since become a symbol of the struggle for workers' rights and is commemorated globally.
In India, Labour Day was first observed in Chennai in 1923, initiated by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of social justice and the protection of workers' rights. In addition to honoring the hard work and dedication of laborers, Labour Day also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by workers in various sectors.
The significance of Labour Day extends beyond mere celebration; it aims to raise awareness about workers' rights, prevent exploitation, and promote fair wages and better working conditions. Across the globe, millions participate in marches, rallies, and other events to honor workers' contributions and advocate for their rights. This day is a reminder of both the progress made in securing labor rights and the ongoing struggles that workers continue to face.
In 2025, Labour Day will be observed as a national holiday in many countries, including China, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Tunisia. In India, states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal recognize Labour Day as a public holiday. On this day, various seminars and events are organized to celebrate employees' achievements and contributions. Banners and posters promoting workers' rights are displayed alongside marches in many regions.
In India, the observance of Labour Day coincides with Maharashtra Day, which commemorates the formation of the state in 1960. As a result, on May 1, 2025, banks will remain closed in several cities, including Belapur, Bengaluru, Chennai, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Imphal, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Panaji, Patna, Raipur, and Thiruvananthapuram. The Indian stock exchanges, including the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), will also be closed in observance of the holiday.
While many schools and government offices will be closed, essential services such as hospitals and emergency services will continue to operate. Interestingly, liquor shops across Maharashtra will remain closed on this day, as it is observed as a dry day prohibiting the sale of alcohol. This highlights the cultural importance of Labour Day and its ties to local traditions.
Labour Day also provides an opportunity to assess the progress made by the labor movement and to reaffirm the commitment to uphold the dignity and rights of all workers, regardless of their occupation or background. It inspires initiatives aimed at improving working conditions and facilitating the advancement of laborers.
The Indian government has taken several initiatives to support workers and laborers. Key schemes include the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) Program, which encourages job creation and formalization within the labor market, and the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) program, which offers a monthly pension of ₹3,000 for informal laborers upon reaching the age of 60. Other initiatives include the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which guarantees 100 days of paid work annually for rural households willing to engage in unskilled labor.
In 2025, a new Labour Code will be implemented in India, comprising four comprehensive codes that integrate and update 29 existing labor regulations. These codes aim to streamline regulations, enhance social security, and create equitable working conditions. They include the Wage Code, which establishes a standard minimum wage for all sectors; the Social Security Code, which broadens social security benefits; the Industrial Relations Code, which simplifies dispute resolution; and the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, which emphasizes workplace safety.
As we celebrate International Labour Day 2025, it is essential to reflect on the contributions of workers and the ongoing struggles they face. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for workers' rights, ensuring fair wages, and creating safe working environments. It is a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to stand in solidarity with the labor force that drives our economies and societies.
As we honor the laborers who contribute to our lives and communities, let us remember that their efforts deserve recognition not just on Labour Day, but every day of the year. Happy Labour Day!
