Central Government Announces Minimum Wage Hike to Support Unorganized Sector Workers

New Delhi, 26th September 2024: In a pivotal initiative aimed at bolstering the financial stability of workers, particularly those in the unorganized sector, the Central Government has unveiled an increase in minimum wage rates through an adjustment of the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA). This move is designed to assist workers in managing the escalating cost of living.

Workers across various fields—including construction, loading and unloading, watch and ward services, sweeping, cleaning, housekeeping, mining, and agriculture—within central sphere establishments will benefit from these revised wage rates. The updated rates will come into effect starting October 1, 2024, following the last revision in April 2024.

The revised minimum wage rates are classified according to skill levels—unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled—as well as geographical categories designated as A, B, and C.

For area “A,” the updated minimum wages are as follows:
– Unskilled workers (construction, sweeping, cleaning, loading & unloading): ₹783 per day (₹20,358 per month)
– Semi-skilled workers: ₹868 per day (₹22,568 per month)
– Skilled workers (clerical and watch & ward without arms): ₹954 per day (₹24,804 per month)
– Highly skilled workers (watch & ward with arms): ₹1,035 per day (₹26,910 per month)

The Central Government revises the VDA biannually, effective from April 1 and October 1, taking into account the average increase in the Consumer Price Index for industrial workers over the preceding six months.

For comprehensive details regarding the new minimum wage rates by sector, category, and area, individuals can visit the website of the Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) at clc.gov.in.