Sharddha Upadhye
New Delhi: In a significant development, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi Marlena has announced an increase in the minimum monthly wages for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers. This wage hike, effective from October 1, 2024, is aimed at providing financial relief to laborers and workers during the festive season, particularly in light of rising inflation.
Key Highlights of the Minimum Wage Hike in Delhi
According to the Delhi government’s announcement, the revised minimum wages for various categories of workers are as follows:
| Category | Previous Rate (₹) | New Rate (₹) | Increase (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unskilled Workers | ₹17,494 | ₹18,066 | ₹572 |
| Semi-Skilled Workers | ₹19,279 | ₹19,929 | ₹650 |
| Skilled Workers | ₹21,215 | ₹21,917 | ₹702 |
This increase is part of the Delhi government’s effort to ensure that workers can cope with the financial pressures of inflation and celebrate the festive season with less economic stress.
Delhi’s Minimum Wage: The Highest in India
Chief Minister Atishi emphasized that Delhi continues to offer the highest minimum wage for unskilled workers in the country. At ₹18,066, Delhi’s minimum wage surpasses the rates in BJP-ruled states such as Rajasthan (₹8,063), Uttar Pradesh (₹8,300), Madhya Pradesh (₹10,000), Haryana (₹10,000), and Chhattisgarh (₹10,900). This comparison underscores Delhi’s commitment to improving the livelihood of its labor force.
| State | Minimum Wage for Unskilled Workers (₹) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹18,066 |
| Rajasthan | ₹8,063 |
| Madhya Pradesh | ₹10,000 |
| Uttar Pradesh | ₹8,300 |
| Haryana | ₹10,000 |
| Chhattisgarh | ₹10,900 |
Regular Wage Increases: A Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, under CM Atishi, has assured that the minimum wages will be revised every two years. This move aligns with the government’s existing policy of increasing the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees. Regular wage hikes aim to keep pace with inflation and ensure that workers in Delhi continue to receive fair compensation.
Impact of the Wage Increase
The wage hike comes at a crucial time, with inflationary pressures impacting daily necessities. For unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers, this increase represents a tangible benefit that can help them manage their expenses more effectively. As Delhi leads the way in setting the highest minimum wage standards in India, the government’s decision highlights its focus on worker welfare and social equity.
Conclusion
Delhi’s 2024 minimum wage hike reaffirms the state’s leadership in labor welfare. As other states continue to offer significantly lower rates, Delhi’s progressive stance offers a blueprint for worker-friendly policies in India. The regular revision of minimum wages is set to enhance the standard of living for Delhi’s labor force, ensuring financial stability and better quality of life for thousands of workers.
