How a strait blockade blew lid off workers’ discontent (INDUSTRIAL PROTESTS IN MANESAR, NOIDA & GHAZIABAD), Pg17

Key Highlights:

• Workers in industrial hubs like Manesar, Noida, and Ghaziabad protested due to rising LPG prices and slow wage growth.
• The Haryana government notified a 35% hike in base minimum wage from April 1, following protests in Manesar on April 9.
• The Uttar Pradesh government announced an interim hike in minimum wages district-wise on April 14.
• Official data shows 1,192 complaints regarding payments under the Minimum Wages Act were received in the first four months of FY26.

Detailed Insights:

• Protests were triggered by surging LPG prices, rumors of wage hikes under the new Labour Codes, and the impact of GST, Covid-19, and MSME trade upheaval.
• The Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises for 2025 revealed a mere 3.9% pay increase for workers, compared to 13% in 2023-24, while job creation also decreased.
• Trade unions are demanding better working conditions, including regulated working hours, workplace safety, and basic facilities, alongside wage hikes.
• The State Minimum Wage Committee in Haryana recommended Rs 23,196 per month, but the current minimum wage is lower, prompting further demands from labor unions.
• The Annual Survey of Industries indicates that wages per worker in the manufacturing sector rose by 5.5% in 2023-24 to Rs 2.16 lakh per annum.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Minimum Wage Act: Law mandating the minimum remuneration employers can pay workers.
• Labour Codes: A set of laws intended to simplify and modernize India's labor regulations.
• GST (Goods and Services Tax): An indirect tax used in India on the supply of goods and services.