Centre Increases Minimum Wage Rates for Workers

The Central Government has announced an increase in minimum wage rates for workers across various sectors, aiming to help them manage the rising cost of living. This change, which takes effect from October 1, 2024, follows the revision of the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA).

The new wages will benefit workers in industries such as construction, cleaning, housekeeping, mining, agriculture, and security services. Minimum wage rates are determined based on skill levels—unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled—as well as geographical regions, labelled as areas A, B, and C.

For unskilled workers in area “A”, the daily wage will now be Rs 783 (Rs 20,358 per month), while semi-skilled workers will earn Rs 868 daily (Rs 22,568 monthly). Skilled workers, including clerical staff and security personnel without arms, will receive Rs 954 a day (Rs 24,804 monthly), and highly skilled workers and security with arms will be paid Rs 1,035 daily (Rs 26,910 monthly).

This revision takes place twice a year, in April and October, to adjust for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index.