Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann utilized the platform of a special legislative session in Chandigarh this Friday to announce a substantial 15 per cent hike in the minimum wage for workers across the province. Marking the observance of International Labour Day, the Chief Minister described the move as a vital step toward ensuring social justice and economic security for those who form the backbone of the region’s productivity. The timing of the announcement in the State Assembly was intended to celebrate the contributions of the working class while providing immediate financial assistance to thousands of families navigating the challenges of a modern economy.
During his address, the Chief Minister highlighted that the new wage structure is designed to help the labour force better manage the rising cost of living and inflation. He noted that the prosperity of the province depends on the dignity and fair compensation of its workforce, emphasizing that his administration remains dedicated to creating a more equitable society. In a symbolic gesture, several representatives from various labour unions were invited to witness the proceedings, underlining the government’s shift toward a more inclusive approach to governance and welfare.
By implementing this increase, the provincial government aims to foster a healthier and more resilient labour environment that supports long-term growth. The Chief Minister reiterated that the progress of a “Rangla Punjab” is fundamentally linked to the empowerment of the common citizen. This legislative action effectively transitions the government’s rhetoric on worker rights into a tangible policy that will enhance the purchasing power and quality of life for labourers in both urban and rural districts.
