Sikkim govt hikes minimum wages

GANGTOK: The government of Sikkim has revised the minimum wages for skilled as well as unskilled workers, leading the state to the third spot in giving the highest minimum wage in the country. The daily wages for unskilled workers have been increased from Rs. 300 to Rs 500 (67 per cent) with effect from July 11 2022, retrospectively.

The change will affect four categories of workers, that is, unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled. As per the revised rates, unskilled workers will now receive Rs 500, semi-skilled Rs 520, and skilled Rs 535 per day. Highly skilled workers will now earn Rs 565 per day.

This will be applicable for those working at an altitude up to 8000 feet, while 50 per cent more wages will be given to those working at altitudes from 8001 feet to 12,000 feet. Seventy-five per cent more will be paid to workers working at altitudes of 12001 feet to 16000 feet than normal wage.