Uttar Pradesh govt hikes minimum wages across categories after Noida protests; revised rates effective from April 1

NOIDA: The Uttar Pradesh government has increased minimum wages across all worker categories following the recent unrest in Noida, with the revised rates implemented retrospectively from April 1, officials said on Tuesday.Gautam Buddh Nagar district magistrate Medha Roopam said the hike was approved by a high-powered committee.She added, "The decision was approved by CM UP late last night." In Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad, unskilled workers will now receive Rs 13,690 per month, up from Rs 11,313. Semi-skilled workers will be paid Rs 15,059, while skilled workers will get Rs 16,868, according to an official statement.In other municipal corporation areas, the revised monthly wages have been set at Rs 13,006 for unskilled workers, Rs 14,306 for semi-skilled workers, and Rs 16,025 for skilled workers.For the remaining districts, unskilled workers will earn Rs 12,356 per month, semi-skilled workers Rs 13,591, and skilled workers Rs 15,224.The decision follows consultations with employers’ bodies and labour organisations, with the government stating that suggestions and objections were reviewed to ensure a “balanced and practical” outcome.The revision comes in the wake of large-scale protests by factory workers in Noida on Monday, where thousands demanded higher wages and better working conditions. The demonstrations turned violent in parts of the district, prompting the government to set up a committee to address the situation and engage with both workers and employers.(With agency inputs)