Do We Need a Labour License for Subcontracted Workers Across Multiple Zones?

Dear Seniors, We are an Electrical Contracting Company. At present, we have been awarded contracts in different zones (East, West, North, South). Each zone comprises 6 sites in different states. We are employing no more than 19 subcontracted laborers at each site. Do we still need to obtain a "LABOUR LICENSE" under the CONTRACT LABOUR ACT?

If the answer is NO, do we still need to submit the FORM VIA (Notice of Commencement of Contract Work) to the labor commissioner? We are seeking guidance as we are currently in a state of complete dilemma regarding the above issue.

Thank you in anticipation.

Regards, Ragvendra Rao.

Dear RAO, can anyone believe that in all 24 sites, the number of contract laborers to be engaged through subcontracting is exactly not more than 19? Is it a sheer coincidence or a calculated arrangement? Thank you.

Whatever the labor laws applicable to the establishment of the Principal Employer are equally applicable to the contract labor engaged therein. Since IT and ITES establishments are covered by the State's Shops and Establishments Act, the working hours of the contract labor engaged therein should also be the same.

Under the S&E Acts, the maximum working hours of a day shall not exceed 10 hours, including overtime (8 hours + 2 hours), subject to the weekly limit of 54 hours (48 regular + 6 O.T) Hrs.

Mr. Ragavendra Rao,

Could you please clarify what you mean by your statement, "19 labor (sub-contract) at each site"? Are you implying that you are a sub-contractor to a main contractor, or have you hired 19 laborers from another labor contractor, or is it something else? Kindly provide clarity in your statement.