Chandigarh: The Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government has taken a major pro-labour decision by approving a 15% increase in minimum wages for workers across the state. The resolution was unanimously passed in the Punjab Legislative Assembly during a special session held on the occasion of Labour Day (May Day), marking a significant policy shift after 13 years.
The decision is expected to directly benefit registered workers in both government and private sectors across Punjab.
Wage Hike for Government and Private Sector Workers
The newly approved amendment increases the base minimum wage by 15%, addressing a long-pending revision that had not taken place since 2012. While dearness allowance had been adjusted over the years, the base wage remained unchanged for more than a decade.
According to the government, this revision aims to improve the financial condition of the working class and ensure fair compensation in line with rising inflation and cost of living.
Government Calls It a Tribute to Labour Contribution
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann described the decision as a gesture of respect toward workers’ contributions to the state’s economic development. He emphasized that labourers form the backbone of society and deserve dignity, recognition, and fair wages.
He also highlighted that Labour Day is a symbolic reminder of workers’ historic struggles, including the 1886 Chicago movement that laid the foundation for global labour rights.
Focus on Education as a Path to Social Upliftment
During the assembly session, the Chief Minister also stressed the importance of education in improving the lives of workers and their families. He stated that the state government is undertaking major reforms in the education sector to uplift underprivileged communities.
He pointed out recent achievements of students from government schools, including success in competitive exams like JEE Main, and said that many of these students come from labour-class families.
Political Criticism of Opposition Walkout
CM Bhagwant Mann criticized opposition parties, particularly the Congress, for walking out of the special assembly session. He alleged that the opposition failed to engage constructively in discussions related to workers’ welfare and reflected an insensitive attitude toward labour issues.
He said the ruling government remains committed to protecting workers’ rights and implementing welfare-oriented policies.
Announcement of Religious Legislation and Gratitude March
The Chief Minister also referred to the passage of the “Jagt Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026,” which includes stricter provisions against sacrilege incidents. He stated that the law aims to ensure strict punishment for offenders and maintain communal harmony in the state.
To express gratitude for the passage of the legislation, CM Mann announced a “Shukrana Yatra” starting May 6 from Sri Anandpur Sahib and concluding on May 9. The yatra will cover several major Sikh religious sites, including Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Sri Harmandir Sahib.
The 15% minimum wage hike marks one of the most significant labour reforms in Punjab in over a decade. Combined with the government’s focus on education reforms and social welfare measures, the decision reflects the administration’s push toward strengthening the economic and social conditions of the working class in the state.
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