Punjab Revises Minimum Wages, Announces New Pay Structure Effective May 1, 2026
Punjab government revises minimum wages effective May 1, 2026, increasing pay across unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled categories. New rates also cover educated staff and agricultural workers, ensuring wage equality and accountability for employers under updated labour regulations.
Under the revised framework, the monthly wage for unskilled workers has been fixed at ₹13,486. The notification further outlines structured increases across other employment categories. Semi-skilled workers will now receive ₹14,383 per month, while skilled workers are entitled to ₹15,414 per month. Highly skilled workers will earn ₹16,601 per month under the new wage regime.
The government has also introduced specific classifications for educated staff, categorized from A to D. Notably, Staff Category-A, which includes individuals holding postgraduate degrees or MBA qualifications, will receive a minimum monthly wage of ₹19,431. This move reflects an effort to align wages with educational qualifications and professional skill levels.
Revised wage rates have also been announced for agricultural labourers. Workers engaged in agricultural activities without meals will be paid a daily wage of ₹540.983. For attached labourers working with meals provided, the annual wage has been set at ₹90,973.28, ensuring structured compensation within the agricultural sector.
The government has emphasized strict adherence to wage equality, stating that there will be no discrimination based on gender, including male, female, transgender, or differently-abled employees. It has also clarified that in cases where workers are employed through contractors or outsourcing arrangements, the primary employer will bear full responsibility for ensuring payment of the prescribed minimum wages.
Additionally, provisions have been made for trainees, who will be entitled to receive 75 percent of the applicable category wage or the minimum wage for unskilled workers, whichever is higher, during their training period.
This comprehensive revision underscores the state government's commitment to strengthening wage security, promoting fairness in employment practices, and ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible benefits for the workforce across sectors.

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