Lucknow | April 14, 2026:
The Uttar Pradesh government led by Yogi Adityanath has announced an interim increase in minimum wages for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers, a day after protests by workers in Noida turned violent.
Clarifying reports, the state government stated that claims of minimum wages being raised to ₹20,000 per month are incorrect and not officially mandated. It added that a comprehensive revision of minimum wages is currently under consideration at the national level as part of ongoing reforms under Labour Codes.
In an official statement, the government said the objective of the exercise is to establish a uniform baseline wage across the country to ensure fair and just remuneration for workers. It also confirmed that consultations with stakeholders, including industry representatives and labour groups, are ongoing.
Acknowledging current economic pressures, the government noted that industries are facing challenges such as rising raw material costs and declining exports. At the same time, it recognised that workers’ concerns are valid and require attention, stressing the need for a balanced and harmonious approach between labour and industry.
As an interim measure, the state has approved a wage hike of up to 21% for unskilled workers, effective April 1. Workers in Noida and Ghaziabad will see a 21% increase, while those in municipal areas will receive a 15% hike, and workers in other regions will get a 9% increase.
Under the revised structure, the minimum monthly wage for unskilled workers has increased from ₹11,313 to ₹13,690 in Noida and Ghaziabad. In municipal areas, wages have risen to ₹13,006 per month, while workers in other parts of the state will now receive ₹12,356.
The government also announced that a Wage Board will be constituted next month to recommend a comprehensive framework for minimum wages going forward.
