In a major move following intense labour unrest, the government led by Yogi Adityanath has announced a 21% increase in interim minimum wages for workers in key industrial districts like Gautam Buddha Nagar and Ghaziabad.

The decision comes after massive protests at Noida Phase 2, where workers, especially from the Hosiery Complex, took to the streets demanding better pay. Despite the hike, sit-in protests continued into Tuesday, signalling that the issue is far from resolved.

What’s changed? New wage structure explained

According to the District Magistrate’s office, the revised monthly wages (effective April 1) are:

Gautam Buddha Nagar & Ghaziabad

  • Unskilled workers: Rs 11,313 – Rs 13,690
  • Semi-skilled workers: Rs 12,445 - Rs 15,059
  • Skilled workers: Rs 13,940 - Rs 16,868

Districts with Municipal Corporations

  • Unskilled: Rs 13,006
  • Semi-skilled: Rs 14,306
  • Skilled: Rs 16,025

Other Districts

  • Unskilled: Rs 12,356
  • Semi-skilled: Rs 13,591
  • Skilled: Rs 15,224

Protests continue despite wage hike

Even after the announcement, workers in Noida’s industrial belt refused to call off their agitation. Many believe the hike still falls short of their demands, especially amid rising living costs.

Police presence remains high after protests reportedly turned violent on Monday, underlining the seriousness of the situation.

Amid the unrest, authorities have also addressed misinformation. The Noida DM’s office clarified that claims of a Rs 20,000 minimum wage in Uttar Pradesh are “fabricated and false news being circulated on several social media platforms.”

National wage policy in the works

The Centre is currently working on a national “floor wage” under new labour codes, aimed at ensuring a uniform minimum wage baseline across India. The state government says it is consulting both employers and labour unions to strike a balance.

Officials acknowledged that the problems and demands raised by workers are relevant, important, and worth considering.

At the same time, they highlighted challenges such as: Rising raw material costs, declining exports and economic pressures on industries.

CM’s message to employers & public

Yogi Adityanath urged people to rely only on official information and called on employers to ensure:

  • Timely wage payments
  • Overtime compensation
  • Weekly holidays and bonuses
  • Social security benefits
  • Safety and dignity for women workers.

With ANI inputs