Central government increases minimum wage; applicable from October 1 | Jobs News
The Central Government Thursday announced an increase in minimum wage rates by revising the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA). The new wage rates will take effect from October 1.
“In a significant move to support workers, particularly those in the unorganized sector, the Central Government has announced an increase in minimum wage rates by revising the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA). This adjustment is aimed at helping workers cope with the rising cost of living,” the official PIB release stated.
Workers engaged in various sectors, including building construction, loading and unloading, watch and ward, sweeping, cleaning, housekeeping, mining, and agriculture within central sphere establishments, will benefit from the revised wage rates.
The minimum wage rates are categorised based on skill levels — unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled — as well as by geographical area —A, B, and C.
As per the official notification, after revision, minimum wage rates in area “A” for workers in construction, sweeping, cleaning, loading and unloading for unskilled work will be Rs 783 a day (Rs 20,358 per month) for semi-skilled Rs 868 a day (Rs 22,568 per month) for skilled, clerical, and watch and wards without arms Rs 954 a day (Rs 24,804 per month) and for highly skilled and watch and ward with arms Rs 1,035 a day (Rs 26,910 per month).
The Central Government revises the VDA twice a year, effective from April 1 and October 1, based on the six-month average increase in the Consumer Price Index for industrial workers. Last revision was done in April 2024.
Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister, Atishi, on Wednesday increased both dearness allowance (DA) and minimum wage for skilled and unskilled workers. The new rates for Delhi will also come into effect from October 1.
