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Minimum Wages in Punjab

Written byZimyo
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Rates in force

Minimum wages in Punjab

  • In force from 1 May 2026
  • Revised by fresh notification (the May 2026 notification replaced the old March and September cycle)

Checked against the notification on 2 November 2026

Lowest monthly minimum wage₹13,486Unskilled · ₹518.69 a day

Monthly minimum wage by skill level

  • Unskilled₹13,486₹518.69 a day
  • Semi-skilled₹14,383₹553.19 a day
  • Skilled₹15,414₹592.84 a day
  • Highly skilled₹16,601₹638.5 a day

Applies to: All employments in Punjab, including shops and commercial establishments. Notification: Notification No. Labour-Lab0MIWA/1/2021-4L (260032)/166 dated 1 May 2026 (under the Code on Wages, 2019).

All rates (including 4 other categories), with daily rates
CategoryPer dayPer month
Unskilled₹518.69₹13,486
Semi-skilled₹553.19₹14,383
Skilled₹592.84₹15,414
Highly skilled₹638.5₹16,601
Staff Category A (post-graduate / MBA / CS / professional degree)₹747.34₹19,431
Staff Category B (graduate, or undergraduate with stenography/computer/accountancy diploma, or supervisory staff)₹673.46₹17,510
Staff Category C (above matriculate but not graduate; incl. timekeeper, salesman, assistant, storekeeper)₹607.15₹15,786
Staff Category D (Class-IV employee)₹554.07₹14,406
  • These are basic minimum rates with no separate dearness allowance.
  • Daily rate = monthly rate ÷ 26.
  • Hotels, restaurants and similar employments may pay 30% less where two meals, two teas and lodging are provided (10% less without lodging).

Sources: Punjab Govt Gazette Extraordinary, 1 May 2026 - Notification No. Labour-Lab0MIWA/1/2021-4L · Punjab Labour Department homepage - Latest News · Simpliance - Notification regarding revision of minimum wages w.e.f 01st May 2026 in Punja

Minimum Wages in Punjab

Minimum Wage Rates for Different Worker Categories

The updated minimum wages will apply to unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly-skilled workers. These increases reflect the evolving economic conditions and are designed to provide better wages for workers in various sectors.

Minimum Wage Rates for Government Outsourced Employees

This table outlines the adjusted wages for staff categories employed under the Government of Punjab, local authorities, and various public sector undertakings (PSUs) under the state government.

The new rates reflect increases across different staff categories, with the aim to ensure fair compensation for those employed on outsourced or daily wage bases.

Adjustments to Minimum Wages in Punjab: What's Necessary to Know?

Why are these Adjustments Important?

2. Fair Compensation

Linking wages to the CPI ensures timely updates that reflect the actual cost of living. This method keeps wages fair and consistent with economic trends.

3. Support for Vulnerable Workers

These adjustments particularly benefit unskilled laborers and agricultural workers, who often face the highest financial challenges.

4. Boost to the Economy

Higher wages mean better purchasing power for workers, which can stimulate economic growth by increasing consumer spending.

The Crux

The updated minimum wages in Punjab are a step forward in ensuring fair pay for all workers. By aligning wages with inflation and the cost of living, the state government addresses the financial challenges faced by workers across various sectors. Whether you are an unskilled laborer, a government employee, or an agricultural worker, these changes aim to protect your livelihood and enhance your financial stability.

Stay informed, and ensure you’re receiving the wages you deserve under the updated guidelines. If you’re unsure about how these changes impact you, consult with a labor expert or the Punjab Labour Department for clarity.

FAQs

Minimum wages in Punjab: FAQs

What is the minimum wage in Punjab in 2026?

From 1 May 2026, the minimum wage for an unskilled worker in Punjab is ₹13,486 a month (₹518.69 a day); for a skilled worker it is ₹15,414 a month. These are the rates for all employments in Punjab, including shops and commercial establishments.

How often are minimum wages revised in Punjab?

Punjab revises its minimum wages by fresh notification (the May 2026 notification replaced the old March and September cycle). The rates on this page are in force from 1 May 2026 until the next revision.

What happens if an employer pays less than the minimum wage in Punjab?

Paying less than the minimum wage is an offence under the Code on Wages, 2019: a fine of up to ₹50,000, and for a repeat offence within five years, imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to ₹1,00,000, or both. The worker can also claim the shortfall. Overtime must be paid at least at twice the normal rate.

How can I make sure payroll in Punjab follows the latest minimum wages?

Check each employee's gross wages against the rate for their skill level and zone every time Punjab revises its rates. Payroll software such as Zimyo can apply the new rates and flag anyone paid below them.

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