The Government of Assam has officially announced the revision of the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) and minimum wages for contract workers and laborers, effective 1st January 2025. This notification, issued on March 25, 2025, aims to ensure better financial support for workers across the state, addressing the rising cost of living.
Key Highlights of the Notification:
- Cumulative VDA Rate: Set at 53.71% for the period of January to June 2025.
- Applicability: Covers contract workers not under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, and those not performing similar work as directly employed staff.
- Revised Wage Structure: Detailed wage revisions based on skill levels, ensuring fair compensation.
Revised VDA and Minimum Wages Table (Effective from 01/01/2025):
| Category of Workmen | Basic Rate (Rs.) | Existing VDA (Jan 2024) | New VDA (Jan 2025) | Gross Increase (Jan 2016–2025) | Daily Wage (Rs.) | Monthly Wage (Rs.) |
| Highly Skilled (Accountant or Equivalent) | 460 | 684 | 707 | 247 | 707 | 21,212 |
| Skilled (ITI Holder/Clerical) | 370 | 550 | 569 | 199 | 569 | 17,062 |
| Skilled (Other than ITI Holder) | 350 | 520 | 538 | 188 | 538 | 16,140 |
| Semi-Skilled | 290 | 431 | 446 | 156 | 446 | 13,373 |
| Unskilled Workmen | 250 | 372 | 384 | 134 | 384 | 11,528 |
Additional Conditions for Contract Workers:
- Piece Rate Work: No unskilled worker earns less than ₹384/day; skilled categories receive higher minimums based on their classification.
- Overtime: Paid at twice the ordinary rate for work beyond 8 hours/day or 48 hours/week.
- Weekly Rest: One paid day off for every 6 continuous working days.
- Paid Holidays: Observed on 26th January, 1st May, 15th August, and 2nd October.
- Festival Holidays: Up to 7 days of paid leave annually for religious or cultural observances.
- Annual Leave with Wages: 1 day off for every 20 days worked annually.
- Leave Travel Concession: Available once every alternate year with 25 days of average wages.
Implementation:
The revised rates and conditions come into effect immediately, with the government urging all employers to comply and ensure fair wages for contract workers. This step reflects Assam’s commitment to worker welfare and adapting to economic shifts.
