Lahore, September 6, 2024 – The Punjab government on Friday officially announced an increase in the minimum wage for laborers, setting it at Rs 37,000 per month. The new wage structure will be implemented retroactively, effective from July 1, 2024.
The notification was issued by the Labour and Human Resources Department of Punjab and states that daily wages for laborers will now stand at Rs 1,423. The increase is aimed at addressing the rising cost of living and providing financial relief to the working class across the province. The decision marks a significant step in supporting low-income workers, ensuring they are better equipped to manage their household expenses.
One of the key aspects of the notification is the equalization of pay for all genders. The document makes it clear that female workers will receive the same minimum wage as their male counterparts, reinforcing the government’s commitment to gender equality in the workplace.
The revised minimum wage comes in response to long-standing demands from labor unions and workers’ rights groups, who have called for higher pay to combat inflation and rising living costs. In recent months, the surge in essential commodity prices, including food and fuel, has heightened the urgency for such measures. The increase to Rs 37,000 represents a meaningful raise compared to the previous wage floor of Rs 32,000, providing much-needed relief to laborers.
Government officials have hailed this move as a progressive step toward improving the living standards of workers in Punjab. They highlighted that the new wage policy will help reduce poverty and promote a fairer distribution of wealth among the workforce.
The Punjab government has also urged employers to comply with the new regulations and ensure that workers are paid according to the updated wage scale. The Labour and Human Resources Department will oversee the enforcement of the notification, with penalties for those found violating the new wage standards.
Labor organizations have welcomed the increase but continue to push for further improvements, including better working conditions and access to social security benefits for laborers across the province.
As the notification takes effect, it is expected to benefit thousands of workers in both the formal and informal sectors, contributing to improved economic conditions for laborers in Punjab.
