The government has declared a significant increase in minimum wage rates for workers in India, to help mitigate the rising cost of living. From October 2024, workers in construction, cleaning, and other industries will see their wages rise to Rs 1,035 a day. The revised rates are based on skill levels and geographical areas, and the last revision was done in April 2024.
The central government has announced a marginal hike in minimum wages for workers in the informal sector, effective from October 1. This move, which is part of an adjustment in the Variable Dearness Allowance, aims to alleviate the impact of rising living costs. The announcement comes amid protests calling for higher wages and the repeal of four labour codes. Additionally, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has also announced new minimum wage rates, which are the highest in the country, for workers in the unorganised sector.
In her first press conference after becoming Delhi's chief minister, Atishi declared revised minimum wages for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers, stating they were the highest in the country. She also accused the BJP of being "anti-poor" and hindering the implementation of minimum wages in other states. The new rates, applicable from 1 October, were achieved through the Kejriwal government's efforts despite opposition from the BJP, according to Atishi.
With the festive season approaching, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi Marlena announces a rise in the minimum monthly wage for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers in Delhi. The aim of this increase is to provide some relief to workers during the expensive festival period. The new rates are higher than those in other BJP-ruled states, with Delhi’s minimum wage being the highest in the country. This increase will be implemented from October 1 and will be revised every two years.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's close aide, V K Pandian, has accused BJP and Congress leaders of hindering Odisha government's welfare schemes and politicizing development work. He highlighted various successful initiatives undertaken by the Chief Minister, such as the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana and Mission Shakti, defending them against criticism from Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Pandian also highlighted the state's commitment to social welfare, with benefits such as increased pensions and minimum wages for laborers.