The Central Government has officially notified the Social Security (Central) Rules, 2026 on 08th May 2026 vide Gazette Notification No. CG-DL-E-08052026-272366. The new rules consolidate various labour welfare legislations relating to EPF, ESI, gratuity, maternity benefits, and building workers’ welfare into a unified social security framework aimed at simplifying compliance and enhancing employee benefits. Key reforms include online registration and compliance management through the Shram Suvidha Portal, deemed registration approvals within seven days, PAN-based electronic verification systems, online cancellation of establishment registrations after fulfilment of statutory obligations, and enhanced provisions for computation of average daily wages. The rules also introduce a dedicated social security mechanism for gig and platform workers while strengthening the National Social Security Board with broader representation from workers, employers, aggregators, and experts.