The Labour Department, Chandigarh on September 07, 2026, has revised the minimum rates of wages for industrial workers based on the average Cost of Living Index of 2,270 points for March 2026, representing an increase of 25 points over the previous average of 2,245 points for the quarter ending September 2025. Accordingly, the minimum wages have been increased by ₹175 per month for each category of employees, with the revised rates applicable from April 1, 2026 to September 30, 2026.
The revised monthly wages range from ₹14,737 for Un-skilled workers to ₹15,812 for Highly Skilled workers, while daily wages range from ₹567 to ₹608, respectively. Revised rates are also prescribed for Class III, Class II and Class I staff. For employees in hotels, restaurants, tea stalls and halwai establishments, separate rates have been prescribed depending on whether food and lodging are provided. The adjustment in the Cost of Living Index is to be apportioned in the ratio of 7:1, with seven parts in cash and one part towards two meals and two teas; where accommodation is provided, a maximum of ₹50 per month may be recovered from wages.
[Notification No. ST/(CPI)/2026-27/1980]
