In a significant move to revise labour standards, the Government of Bihar on April 1st 2025 has issued a notification regarding the revision of minimum wage rates for scheduled employment, effective from April 1, 2025. This revision includes adjustments based on the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA), which will reflect changes in the All India Consumer Price Index.
Key Highlights of the Notification:
Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA):
- The VDA will be based on the average of the All India Consumer Price Index for the months July to December 2024.
- VDA adjustments will be reviewed every six months and will be applied three months after the end of each period.
No Reduction in Minimum Wages:
- Even if the consumer price index falls, there will be no reduction in the fixed minimum wage rates.
Revised Wages:
- The revised minimum wage rates for various categories of workers, including unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, highly skilled, and supervisory/clerical staff, have been outlined in the notification.
Overtime and Weekly Rest Day Compensation:
- Workers are entitled to double wages for overtime work on rest days or any other day as specified in the Bihar Minimum Wages Rules, 1951.
Equal Pay for Equal Work:
- The wage rates for male and female workers performing similar tasks will be the same.
Important Notes:
- The conversion of daily wages into monthly wages is calculated by multiplying the daily rate by 26, while monthly wages are converted to daily rates by dividing by 26.
- Wages for rest days are included in the minimum wage rates.
- For domestic employment, the minimum wage is calculated based on an hourly rate, derived by dividing the daily rate by 8 hours.
Impact of the Revision:
- Workers across a wide range of industries in Bihar will see a significant increase in their wages, ensuring better financial security.
- The VDA adjustment mechanism ensures that wages remain in line with inflation, helping workers maintain their purchasing power.
The notification represents the Government of Bihar’s continued effort to provide fair wages and improve the quality of life for workers in scheduled employments across the state.
