In a significant move to bolster the IT and ITES sectors, the Government of Andhra Pradesh, on March 25th 2025 has notified an exemption from specific provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Shops and Establishments Act, 1988. This exemption applies to all Information Technology (IT) and Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES) establishments across the state, effective from the date of publication of the notification.
Key Provisions of the Exemption:
The following sections of the Act are exempted for IT and ITES establishments:
- Sections 15, 16, 21, 23, 31, and sub-sections (1), (2), (3), and (4) of Section 47.
However, this exemption comes with specific conditions aimed at ensuring employee welfare and safety:
- Working Hours: Employees can work up to 48 hours a week, with overtime wages applicable for additional hours.
- Weekly Offs: Every employee is entitled to a weekly off.
- Night Shift for Women: Women employees can work night shifts with adequate security arrangements, including safe transport to and from work.
- Employee Welfare: Companies must provide ID cards and adhere to all existing welfare measures.
- Compensatory Holidays: Employees working on notified holidays are entitled to compensatory leave with wages.
Enhanced Safety Measures for Women Employees:
In response to growing concerns about safety, the government has introduced stringent measures for the protection of women employees, especially those working night shifts:
- Driver Verification: Companies must conduct background checks on drivers, including obtaining bio-data, driving licenses, and contact details.
- Transport Security: Routes and schedules for pick-ups and drop-offs must be supervised, with security guards recommended for night shifts.
- Privacy Protection: Women employees’ personal contact information must remain confidential.
- Control & Monitoring: Companies are required to maintain control rooms for real-time monitoring of vehicle movements, with GPS tracking and integration with the VAHAN app.
- Surveillance: CCTV coverage is mandated at boarding and alighting points for added security.
This strategic move by the Andhra Pradesh government aims to create a more flexible working environment for IT and ITES professionals while ensuring robust safety protocols, particularly for women.
