Gautam Buddh Nagar, April 14, 2026:
In a significant move following recent labour unrest in Noida, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced an interim increase in minimum wages for factory workers. The decision, taken under the direction of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, aims to maintain industrial harmony and provide immediate financial relief to workers.
A high-level committee constituted by the state government held a press conference at the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority to address the situation and share key developments. Industrial Development Commissioner Deepak Kumar stated that the government has adopted a balanced approach while revising wages, ensuring both worker welfare and industrial sustainability.
As per the revised interim structure, the highest wage increase—up to 21%—has been implemented in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad. The new wage rates will be effective from April 1, 2026. For these districts, wages for unskilled workers have been increased from ₹11,313 to ₹13,690, for semi-skilled workers from ₹12,445 to ₹15,059, and for skilled workers from ₹13,940 to ₹16,868.
For other municipal corporation areas, unskilled workers’ wages have been raised to ₹13,006, semi-skilled to ₹14,306, and skilled to ₹16,025. In other districts, wages have been revised to ₹12,356 for unskilled workers, ₹13,591 for semi-skilled workers, and ₹15,224 for skilled workers. The government has indicated that this interim relief will be followed by a comprehensive wage revision based on the recommendations of a wage board to be constituted next month.
The committee also informed that the government is considering additional welfare measures for workers, including schemes related to healthcare, pensions, and education for their children. These steps are part of a broader strategy to strengthen labour welfare and ensure long-term benefits.
Addressing the recent violence during worker protests in Noida, officials clarified that misleading information circulating on social media—particularly claims about a ₹20,000 minimum wage—was baseless and contributed to confusion among workers.
The committee’s investigation found that while the workers’ protest was largely peaceful and focused on legitimate demands such as wage increases, weekly holidays, double overtime pay, and better working conditions, there were indications of involvement by external elements in triggering violence.
The government has taken a strict stance against such elements, stating that those responsible for disturbing industrial peace will face strong legal action. Authorities have launched a special drive to identify individuals involved in violent activities, using technical surveillance, intelligence inputs, and local information networks. Legal action, including arrests and criminal cases, is being initiated against those found guilty.
To ensure better communication and grievance redressal, a dedicated control room has been established at the district level. Workers can report issues or seek assistance through the helpline numbers: 0120-2978231, 0120-2978232, 0120-2978862, and 0120-2978702.
Members present during the press briefing included Principal Secretary (Labour) M.K.S. Sundaram, Additional Chief Secretary (MSME, Export Promotion, Khadi and Village Industries) Alok Kumar, Labour Commissioner Markandey Shahi, Yamuna Authority CEO Rakesh Kumar Singh, and District Magistrate Medha Roopam.
The state government reiterated its commitment to maintaining industrial peace, protecting workers’ rights, and ensuring a conducive environment for investment and development. Authorities emphasized that strict action will be taken against any attempts to disrupt harmony while continuing efforts to address the concerns of both workers and employers.
