The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Central) Rules, 2026, which came into effect on May 8, 2026, represent a significant advancement in labor reform for inter-state migrant workers in India. These rules operationalize the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, which had languished for years without implementation. A key change is the recognition of self-migrating workers, who can now access legal protections under the new framework. Employers must provide written appointment letters, ensuring workers have documentation of their employment terms. Additionally, a digital database will be maintained to track migrant workers, enhancing government accountability and support. The One Nation One Ration Card scheme will enable workers to access subsidized food across states, addressing food security concerns. Furthermore, journey and displacement allowances will be enforced through digital tracking, reducing the risk of exploitation. While these reforms are promising, challenges remain in enforcement and accessibility, particularly for smaller employers and workers with limited digital literacy. Overall, these changes aim to provide migrant workers with the recognition and protections they have long been denied.