In her first major policy move since assuming office, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has announced a significant hike in minimum wages for workers in the unorganised sector. Starting from October 1, 2024, unskilled workers will now receive ₹18,066 per month, while semi-skilled and skilled workers will earn ₹19,929 and ₹21,917, respectively. This increase, the highest in the country, comes as part of the AAP government’s ongoing efforts to improve living standards for the working class, particularly those employed in labour-intensive jobs.
Key Details of the Wage Hike
Atishi’s announcement has been positioned as a step forward in ensuring equitable pay for those in the unorganised sector. Workers with higher educational qualifications will also benefit from the new wage structure, with matriculate workers set to receive ₹21,917 and graduates ₹23,836. The new rates aim to offer financial relief to thousands of workers ahead of the festival season.
This hike comes against a backdrop of historic efforts by the Delhi government, which has twice annually revised minimum wages since 2016, following a landmark decision after court intervention. Atishi underlined the importance of these revisions, stating that the BJP had attempted to obstruct wage hikes previously, but the AAP government succeeded in getting the courts to rule in favour of the workers.
A Decade of Progress
Atishi highlighted how the AAP government has transformed wage policies since coming into power in 2013. Before AAP’s leadership, the monthly minimum wage for unskilled workers was ₹7,722, which has now more than doubled. The semi-skilled category previously earned ₹8,528, and the skilled workers received ₹9,388.
Delhi’s Labour Minister, Mukesh Ahlawat, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continually improving the living conditions of workers, stating that such hikes ensure a better quality of life for those who form the backbone of the city’s economy.
Broader Political Context
The announcement comes amid accusations that the BJP, in power at the national level, has historically neglected the working class. Atishi made it clear that states governed by the BJP provide significantly lower minimum wages compared to Delhi, labelling their approach as “anti-poor.”
The timing of the wage hike also aligns with upcoming political campaigns, as the Delhi government continues to showcase its worker-friendly policies. By prioritizing labour reforms, the AAP government seeks to solidify its support base among Delhi’s working class and marginalised communities.
Conclusion
Atishi’s decision to increase minimum wages is expected to benefit millions of workers in Delhi’s unorganised sector, offering much-needed financial support amid rising living costs. The AAP government’s approach to wage reform, which has included annual revisions and legal battles, is seen as a model for other states. As these new wage rates come into effect, Delhi continues to set a precedent for worker rights and welfare, ensuring that even the lowest-paid workers receive fair compensation.
