The Bihar Government’s Labour Resources Department issued a draft notification on December 23rd 2024 based on recommendations from the Bihar State Minimum Wages Advisory Council. The notification categorizes workers into various skill levels to determine appropriate wages and responsibilities, as part of ongoing reforms.
Classification of Workers:
According to the draft notification, the Governor of Bihar has approved the following classification of workers based on their skills:
Unskilled Work: This category includes tasks that require little or no skill or prior experience in the job. These workers typically perform simple tasks that do not demand special expertise.
Semi-Skilled Work: Workers in this category have acquired some degree of skill or competence through experience. They can perform tasks under the supervision or guidance of skilled workers. This category also includes unskilled supervisory work.
Skilled Work: This category includes tasks that require specialized skill or competence, either learned through job experience or formal training (e.g., apprenticeship in technical or vocational institutions). These workers are capable of taking initiative and making decisions.
Highly Skilled Work: Workers in this category possess advanced technical or vocational skills, often requiring intensive training or considerable practical experience. These workers are responsible for tasks that demand high competence and perfection, and they assume full responsibility for the outcomes of their decisions.
Clerical/Supervisory Cadre: This classification includes workers in administrative or supervisory roles who may oversee operations, manage teams, or handle documentation and other clerical tasks.
Public Consultation:
The Bihar Government has provided a two-month period up to February 23, 2025 to the organizations affected by these classifications are encouraged to submit their comments.
- Submission Process : Objections or suggestions can be sent to the Labour Commissioner, Bihar either via post or by email at icbihar@bihar.gov.in.
- Consideration of Feedback : All objections or suggestions submitted within this period will be reviewed by the State Government, and necessary changes may be made based on the feedback received.
This move is expected to ensure that workers are categorized accurately and that their wages reflect their skills and responsibilities. It also aims to improve labour policies and address the growing need for a skilled workforce in the state.
