The government is raising the minimum wage for workers as the cost of living increases

The Ministry of Labor said in a statement that from October 1, the government raised the minimum wage for workers employed in informal sectors, including construction, mining and agriculture. He added that the change to the Variable Care Allowance (VDA) was made to help workers cope with the rising cost of living.

“This adjustment is intended to help workers cope with the rising cost of living,” the statement said, referring to a 2.40-point increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for industrial workers.

After the hike, unskilled workers in the top bracket can expect a daily minimum wage of Rs 783 (Rs 20,358 per month), semi-skilled workers Rs 868 (Rs 22,568 per month) and highly skilled workers Rs. 1,035 (Rs. 26,910 per month).

Wages are adjusted twice a year (effective April 1 and October 1) in line with inflation, based on the average six-month CPI increase for industrial workers.

Earlier this week, thousands of workers protested across the country, demanding wage increases and the repeal of four labor codes they say favor multinational corporations.