The history of the Labour Department dates back to 1920 and during its initial period, it predominantly looked after the welfare of non-industrial labour. With the rapid growth of the economy, the role of department has widened to cover not only workers in organised sector but also those in the unorganised sector.

The liberalisation policy of the Government has paved way for rapid economic growth in the State. Tamil Nadu is one of the most industrialised States in the country and has seen foreign direct investments in many sectors. This growth has provided enormous employment opportunities to the people of this State, and in the process has created one of the country’s largest pools of skilled human resources.

The Labour Department plays a crucial role in sustaining the rapid industrial and economic growth of the State. Sound and responsible labour behaviour coupled with progressive management practices are pre-requisites for good industrial relations.

The department has been striving to achieve this important task through the legal frame work of the Industrial Disputes Act to conciliate and settle industrial disputes for creating a congenial atmosphere.

The department is effectively enforcing various Labour Legislations for protecting the interests of the workers engaged in organised and unorganised sectors. It has been implementing various Acts to maintain good industrial relations and promote welfare of workers.