Minimum Wages in India — State Wise Rates
Access the latest statutory minimum wage rates across all 36 Indian states and union territories under the Code on Wages, 2019. Review zone-wise, skill-level, and industry breakdowns for unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled workers, and download official government notification PDFs.
Frequently Asked Questions on Minimum Wages
What is the National Floor Wage under the Code on Wages, 2019?
Under Chapter II of the Code on Wages, 2019, the Central Government fixes a statutory National Floor Wage based on minimum living standards. No State Government can set its minimum wage rates below this national floor wage.
Are minimum wages applicable to all employees and industries in 2026?
Yes. Unlike the legacy Minimum Wages Act of 1948 which restricted statutory wage protection to specific scheduled employments, the Code on Wages, 2019 applies universally to all employees across both organized and unorganized sectors, irrespective of wage ceilings.
How often are minimum wage rates revised in India?
The appropriate government (Central or State) must review and revise minimum wage rates at intervals not exceeding five years. In addition, Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) is revised periodically (usually every 6 months, on April 1 and October 1, or January 1 and July 1) based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
How does minimum wage impact CTC calculation under the 50% Basic Salary rule?
Under the Code on Wages, basic salary and dearness allowance (DA) must constitute at least 50% of an employee’s total Cost to Company (CTC). Since statutory minimum wages form the floor for Basic + DA, HR professionals must ensure that any restructuring of salary components complies with both minimum wage notifications and the 50% basic pay mandate.
What are the penalties for non-payment of minimum wages under the new labour codes?
Failing to pay statutory minimum wages attracts strict penalties under Section 54 of the Code on Wages, 2019, including fines up to ₹50,000 for first-time offences, and imprisonment up to 3 months along with fines up to ₹1,00,000 for repeat offences within 5 years.