Equal Remuneration Act
Full Form of ERA
What is ERA?
The Equal Remuneration Act (ERA) of 1976 is a landmark Indian legislation enacted to prevent discrimination on the grounds of gender in matters of remuneration. It mandates that employers must pay equal wages to men and women for performing the same work or work of a similar nature. The Act extends to the whole of India and applies to all establishments, including factories, mines, plantations, and shops. It prohibits any form of discrimination in recruitment, promotions, and service conditions that may lead to unequal pay. The ERA is enforced by the central and state governments through labour inspectors and authorities. It was amended in 1987 to strengthen compliance and widen its scope. The Act plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality in the Indian workforce, especially in unorganized sectors where wage gaps are prevalent. For UPSC, SSC, and other competitive exams, the ERA is a significant topic under labour laws and constitutional provisions (Article 39(d) of the Directive Principles). The legislation aligns with India's international commitments under ILO conventions and the Sustainable Development Goals. Understanding the ERA helps aspirants analyze contemporary issues of pay parity and women's economic empowerment in India.
ERA का फुल फॉर्म
समान पारिश्रमिक अधिनियम
Example
The Supreme Court recently reiterated that the ERA of 1976 mandates equal pay for equal work, directing the state government to revise the wage structure for female teachers.