India Boosts Minimum Wages for Unorganised Sector Workers from October 2024

The central government of India yesterday increased the minimum wage applicable to workers in the unorganized sector with effect from October 1, 2024. This is part of the Variable Salary Allowance (VDA) which is revised every two years. Every six months, cost of living increases are taken into account when the VDA is revised.

Key details on minimum wage increase

  • Effective date: The new minimum wage will apply from October 1, 2024.
  • Worker Categories: The new wages are categorized based on skill level – unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled and highly skilled – and further differentiated based on geographic region, classified as A, B and C.

Revised Wage Rates for Area “A”

For workers in Zone “A”, the new daily and monthly wages are as follows:

  • Unskilled worker: Rs 783 per day (Rs 20,358 per month)
  • Semi-skilled worker: Rs 868 per day (Rs 22,568 per month)
  • Skilled workers (including clerical staff): Rs 954 per day (Rs 24,804 per month)
  • Highly skilled workers and armed duty and watchmen: Rs 1,035 per day (Rs 26,910 per month).

India’s new minimum wage hike will make Region A the geographical classification that determines wages. It divides the area into three areas; A, B, and C are considered based on economic conditions and the cost of living in the area.

Features of Area A

Economic Status: Zone A includes countries with a high cost of living and good economic conditions.

Wage Rate: Compared to Zone B and Zone C, workers in Zone A have the highest minimum wage rate. This means these areas have the highest cost of living.

This classification helps ensure that wages match the economic realities of a given region; therefore, workers receive a fair wage based on location.

Purpose of revision

The wage increase is aimed at supporting workers in various industries including construction, stevedoring, domestic work, mining and agriculture. The government revised the VDA every six months based on fluctuations in the Industrial Workers Consumer Price Index. This latest adjustment follows the last revision in April 2024.

The Department of Labor and Employment stressed that the increase is critical to helping workers manage expenses amid rising inflation. The revised minimum wage marks a crucial step for the livelihood of workers in India’s unorganized sector. By aligning wages with regional economic conditions, the government aims to provide the necessary support against inflation to create a fairer working environment across different sectors and skill levels.

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