Central Government has announced a significant revision in minimum wage rates.The new wage structure, effective from October 1, 2024, will apply to workers engaged in industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, loading and unloading,etc.

This revision is driven by an increase in the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA).The latest adjustment in VDA is based on the six-month average Consumer Price Index (CPI) for industrial workers, which recorded an increase from 399.70 to 402.09, resulting in a 2.40-point rise.

This change will impact wage rates across various skill levels—unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled workers—as well as different geographical areas (classified as A, B, and C).

Three geographic categories: Area A (Major Cities), Area B (Medium Towns), and Area C (Rural Areas)

 For Area A (major cities and urban centers): Unskilled workers in construction, sweeping,etc will now earn ₹783 per day or ₹20,358 per month. Semi-skilled workers will receive ₹868 per day or ₹22,568 per month. Skilled, clerical, and watch & ward workers without arms will be paid ₹954 per day or ₹24,804 per month. Highly skilled workers and watch & ward with arms will earn ₹1,035 per day or ₹26,910 per month

 Area B (medium-sized towns):  Unskilled workers will earn ₹655 per day. Semi-skilled workers will receive ₹739 per day. Skilled workers and clerical staff will earn ₹868 per day. Highly skilled workers will receive ₹954 per day

For Area C (smaller towns and rural areas): Unskilled workers will receive ₹526 per day Semi-skilled workers will earn ₹614 per day.  Skilled workers and clerical staff will be paid ₹735 per day.  Highly skilled workers will get ₹868 per day.