In a significant move to support workers, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has released a notification on March 27, 2025, regarding the revision of Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) and minimum wages for various scheduled employments under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948. This revision will come into effect from April 1, 2025, and will apply to workers employed in 74 scheduled employments across the state.
Key Highlights of the Notification:
- The VDA has been calculated based on the average Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 414 for the period July 2024 to December 2024.
- The wages will also be adjusted according to the base year CPI of 2001 (100 points) for comparison with the average of 216 points during July 2012 to December 2012.
Revised Wage Structure for Different Categories of Employees:
| Serial No. | Category | Basic Wages (Rs./Month) | Total Wages as of 31.3.2025 (Rs.) | VDA (Rs.) | Total Wages (Rs.) | Daily Wages (Rs.) |
| 1 | Unskilled | 5,750 | 10,701 | 5270.83 | 11,020.83 | 423.87 |
| 2 | Semi-skilled | 6,325 | 11,772 | 5797.91 | 12,122.91 | 466.26 |
| 3 | Skilled | 7,085 | 13,186 | 6494.58 | 13,579.11 | 522.29 |
Note: Daily wages are calculated as 1/26 of the total monthly wages.
Minimum Wages for Workers in Brick Kiln Industry:
| Category | Basic Wages (Rs.) | VDA (Rs.) | Total Wages (Rs.) |
| Pathera (Up to 500 m) | 365 | 334.58 | 699.58 per thousand |
| Pathera (Above 500 m) | 110 | 100.83 | 210.83 per thousand |
| Stuffer (Up to 500 m) | 132 | 121.00 | 253.00 per thousand |
| Stuffer (Above 500 m) | 110 | 100.83 | 210.83 per thousand |
| Withdrawal | 110 | 100.83 | 210.83 per thousand |
Important Notes:
- The revised wages will be effective from April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
- The calculation of VDA ensures that workers are compensated fairly considering the inflationary trends.
This revision aims to enhance the purchasing power of workers, particularly those in vulnerable employment sectors. The Uttar Pradesh government’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to ensuring fair wages amidst rising living costs.
