Gratuity is a lump sum amount that employers pay their employees as a sign of gratitude for the services provided. The gratuity rules are mandated under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972. The act was passed by the Parliament on 21st August 1972 and came into force on 16th September the same year. Payment of Gratuity Act 1972: An Act to provide for a scheme for the payment of gratuity to employees engaged in factories, mines, oilfields, plantations, ports, railway companies, shops or other establishments and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.