Some relief for workers: Min wages go up in capital

New Delhi: In a move aimed at easing the financial burden on workers, Delhi govt has announced an increase in the minimum wage rates for all categories.
The new rates cover workers across a wide range of skill levels. Unskilled workers, for instance, will now receive Rs 18,456 per month, a rise from Rs 18,066. Semi-skilled workers will earn Rs 20,371, up from Rs 19,929. Skilled workers, including non-matriculate ones, will be paid Rs 22,411, an increase from Rs 21,917. For those with a graduate qualification or above, the new wage will be Rs 24,356 against the previous Rs 23,836.
Effective from April 1, 2025, the revised rates aim to help workers tackle the ongoing inflationary pressures. Delhi govt stated that the increase in minimum wages would help protect their purchasing power amid the rising cost of living. A senior govt official said, "This wage hike is essential for workers to cope with inflation, providing them with much-needed financial relief. The increase is designed to offset the rising cost of living, especially in a city like Delhi, where many workers face significant financial strain."
He added, "Inflation continues to affect various sectors of the economy. The increase is part of Delhi govt's ongoing effort to support workers, particularly those in lower-paying jobs."
Delhi High Court earlier said that an industry that didn't pay the minimum wages to its workers had "no right to continue", terming non-payment of such wages as "unconscionable and unpardonable". Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage to their workers can face a fine of up to Rs 50,000 as well as a three-year prison term, with Delhi govt's long-pending proposal for enhanced punishments being notified earlier.