Karnataka Revises Minimum Wages Across 81 Sectors

The Government of Karnataka has announced a major revision in minimum wages across 81 sectors, increasing wage structures by up to 60% in certain categories. The revised notification is expected to impact lakhs of organised and unorganised workers across the State, while also increasing compliance responsibilities for industries, contractors and commercial establishments.

Key Details:

• Minimum monthly wage for unskilled workers in Bengaluru revised to approximately ₹23,376.

• Highly skilled workers in certain sectors may receive up to ₹31,114 per month.

• Wage revisions apply across 81 sectors including:

Industrial units

• Commercial establishments

• Construction activities

• Hospitality services

• Logistics and courier operations

• Housekeeping and maintenance services

• The notification removes gender disparity in wage structures by introducing uniform wage classifications.

• The revision has been issued under the framework of the Minimum Wages Act and the evolving Code on Wages regime.

Wider Impact

Wage revision impacts multiple worker sectors:

• Construction and infrastructure work

• Manufacturing and industrial sectors

• Hospitality and housekeeping services

• Logistics and e-commerce delivery operations

• Skilled and semi-skilled technical work

• Commercial maintenance and facility management services

Increased compliance for industries and contractors:

• MSMEs

• Contractors

• Apartment maintenance agencies

• Commercial establishments

• Developers and builders

• Labour supply agencies

Legal & Policy Significance

• Inflation and rising urban living costs

• Labour welfare considerations

• Expanding formalisation of labour sectors

• Ongoing discussions around worker welfare and gig economy participation