Fri Sep 27 13:35:51 UTC 2024: ## Government Raises Minimum Wages and VDA to Combat Rising Costs
**New Delhi, September 27, 2024** – The Indian government has announced a significant increase in minimum wages for workers in informal sectors, including construction, mining, and agriculture, effective October 1st. This move, coupled with a revision of the variable dearness allowance (VDA), aims to address the rising cost of living and provide much-needed relief to workers.
The Labor Ministry cited a 2.40-point rise in the consumer price index (CPI) for industrial workers as the reason for the adjustment. This increase will translate into a daily minimum wage of Rs 783 (Rs 20,358 per month) for unskilled workers in the highest band, Rs 868 (Rs 22,568 per month) for semi-skilled workers, and Rs 1,035 (Rs 26,910 per month) for highly skilled workers.
The government revises minimum wages twice a year, based on the six-month average rise in CPI for industrial workers. The latest hike comes amidst widespread protests from workers across the country demanding higher wages and the repeal of four labor codes, which they claim favor multinational corporations. While the government has acknowledged the need for worker well-being, it remains to be seen whether this latest move will be enough to address the concerns of workers and appease their demands for improved working conditions.
First Piper 