The Indian Institute of Skill Development and Research (IISDR), in association with the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru, organised a guest lecture on “Redefining HR Practices in the Era of India’s New Labour Codes” on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Maria Paiva Hall, Roshni Nilaya.
As part of the programme, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed between IISDR and the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, marking the beginning of an academic collaboration in the areas of skill development, research, capacity building, guest lectures, workshops, and joint initiatives in human resource management and labour studies.
The guest lecture was delivered by Dr. Rajen Mehrotra, Former Senior Employers’ Specialist for the South Asian Region with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and visiting faculty at leading IIMs. The event witnessed the participation of around 200 HR students from five local institutions, along with HR professionals, reflecting strong academic and industry interest in recent labour law reforms.
Dr. Mehrotra provided a comprehensive analysis of India’s four new labour codes—the Code on Wages, 2019; Code on Social Security, 2020; Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020; and the Industrial Relations Code, 2020—and their far-reaching implications for HR practices. He highlighted changes impacting recruitment, workforce composition, wage structuring, engagement of contract labour, social security, grievance redressal, and industrial relations. He cautioned that over-reliance on non-regular employment without adequate protection could lead to renewed industrial relations challenges.
The lecture also addressed critical issues such as recognition of trade unions, strike and lockout provisions, dispute settlement mechanisms, and revised thresholds for layoff, retrenchment, and closure. Dr. Mehrotra emphasised the need for managements and trade unions to proactively adapt to the new legal framework to ensure industrial harmony and sustainable employment relations.
Dr. Rajen Mehrotra was felicitated on the occasion in recognition of his significant contribution to labour relations and human resource management.
The programme was graced by Mr. Shekar Pujari, Mr. P. A. Jose, Dr. Laxmish Rai, Mr. Shyamlal Yermal, Mr. Chethan Mendonca and Mr. Abdulla Khan.
The event was compered by Ms. Saifana. Ms. Deepika Sanil, faculty member, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, welcomed the gathering, while Ms. Arundathi Hegde, Deputy Director, IISDR, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was convened by HR Professional Dr. Steevan Pinto. Prof. Ciciliya F Goveas, Controller of examination, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, and Dr. Sebastin K. V, Director–Research, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, were present and underscored the importance of strengthening academic–industry collaboration through such initiatives.
The programme and MoU signing reflect IISDR and Roshni Nilaya’s shared commitment to advancing knowledge, research, and professional practice in the field of human resources and labour relations.