The Government of Assam, Labour Welfare Department issued a notification on 10th July 2024, regarding the revised rates of VDA (Variable Dearness Allowance) and the Wages per month payable to employees in the following categories of employments which include, Employment in Bakery, Breweries and Distillery, Black Smith, Biscuit Manufacturing, Film (Production, Distribution and Exhibition) Industry, Canteen & Clubbing, Cooperative consumer societies, Petrol Pump workers, Private Hospital workers and much more.
This notification is in continuance to the previous notification dated 24-11-2023 which laid down the rates of VDA (Variable Dearness Allowance) and the Wages per month payable to the employees. The Government of Assam has categorized Employees/Workers entitled to payment of wages in 4 main categories such as Unskilled workers, Semiskilled/Unskilled Supervisory, Skilled Workers/Clerical Workers and Highly Skilled Workers.
As per the new notification:
- Unskilled workers – The revised VDA per month is Rs. 296.64 and the revised Wages per month is Rs 10097.14
- Semi-skilled/ unskilled Supervisory – The revised VDA per month is Rs.346.08 and the revised Wages per month is Rs. 11736.80
- Skilled Workers/ Clerical Workers – The revised VDA per month is Rs 432.60 and the revised Wages per month is Rs. 14671.95
- Highly skilled workers – The revised VDA per month is Rs.556.20 and the revised Wages per month is Rs. 18863.25
To ensure equitable compensation for workers in Assam, the state has revised its minimum wage policy. Employers must apply these wage rates while computing employee salaries, promoting fair treatment in the workplace. Using the minimum wages in Assam to calculate salaries will help employers comply with the Minimum Wages Act and avoid penalties.