The Industries, Energy, Labour and Mining Department, Maharashtra on September 11th 2024, issued the notification regarding the Draft notification regarding the revised Minimum Wages payable to the employees employed in the employees employed in the cement and cement-based industry.
What is the Minimum Wages Act
The Minimum Wages Act, 1948, is a crucial piece of legislation designed to establish minimum wage standards across various industries in India. Its primary goal is to safeguard the economic interests of workers by preventing exploitation and ensuring they receive fair wages for their labor.
Key Highlights of the Notification
- Purpose of the Notification: The notification proposes a revision of minimum wage rates specifically for the scheduled employment in the cement industry in Maharashtra. This revision aims to keep wage rates in line with inflation and the cost of living.
- Revised Wage Rates: The new wage structure categorizes employees based on skill levels and geographical zones:
| Category | Zone I (Municipal Corporations) | Zone II (Grade ‘A’ & ‘B’ Councils) | Zone III (Other Areas) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Employees | ₹15,845 | ₹14,565 | ₹13,280 |
| Semi-skilled Employees | ₹15,415 | ₹14,135 | ₹12,855 |
| Un-skilled Employees | ₹14,990 | ₹13,710 | ₹12,430 |
Zone Definitions:
- Zone I: Areas within the limits of Municipal Corporations.
- Zone II: Areas within ‘A’ and ‘B’ Grade Municipal Councils.
- Zone III: All other areas not covered in Zones I and II.
Wage Calculation Methodology
The notification outlines how to calculate daily and hourly wages:
- Daily Wages: For employees paid on a daily basis, the monthly wage will be divided by 26 to determine daily rates.
- Hourly Wages: For part-time employees, the daily wage will be divided by eight, with a 15% increase factored in.
Cost of Living Allowance (COLA)
An important aspect of the notification is the introduction of the Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA). This allowance will be based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring that workers’ wages keep pace with inflation. The COLA will be adjusted every six months, with the average CPI calculated for two periods each year: January to June and July to December.
Public Consultation Process
Comments/Suggestions may be sent within 2 months from September 11th 2024 to the Commissioner of Labour, ‘Kamgar Bhavan’, C-20, ‘E’ Block, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai 400 051.
Deadline: November 11th 2024.
