Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): In a move aimed at easing financial pressure amid soaring living costs, the Canadian government has announced a major relief for Indian workers and students through an increase in the federal minimum wage. The decision is expected to particularly benefit the large Indian diaspora residing in the country.
Effective from April 1, the hourly federal minimum wage for employees in federally regulated private-sector jobs has been increased from CAD 17.30 to CAD 17.75. The 2.4 percent hike showcases Canada’s efforts to adjust wages in line with inflation, as determined by the annual Consumer Price Index.
Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, emphasized that “This wage hike is a step forward in reducing income disparities and building a more equitable economy for all Canadians.”
Meanwhile, the employers have been directed to ensure that the updated wage rate is applied to all eligible employees, including those in the position of interns. This annual adjustment is part of a broader federal strategy to stabilize the income and provide consistency in earnings, especially for those working in the vulnerable job sectors.
Positive News for the Indian Community in Canada
The new wages are particularly significant for Indian nationals living and studying in Canada. Notably, Indians are 3.7 percent of the total Canadian population, with over 1.35 million people of Indian origin living in the country. The majority of them do part-time jobs or gig work in construction, healthcare, hospitality, and retail.
