Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh has stated that any future increases in the national wage will require meticulous evaluation. Following a recent adjustment, the minimum wage has been increased from $4.50 to $5.00 per hour as of April 1, a step that followed a previous raise to $4.50 on August 1, 2024.
In light of rising living costs and public calls for a minimum wage of $7.00, Singh noted that no further increases are on the current agenda and that any further adjustments will be considered later. He acknowledged that many individuals are concerned about potential increases in the cost of goods due to rising tariffs from the U.S. government. “Currently, the American government has suspended proposed tariff increases for the next 90 days,” he remarked.
The minister reassured that relevant ministries are actively monitoring the situation through ongoing negotiations. The recent wage hike was implemented after extensive consultations and guidance from experts, designed to ensure a balance between providing fair wages and maintaining economic stability for businesses.
This wage increase reflects a broader governmental commitment to enhancing worker welfare while recognizing the need for regulatory compliance among employers. Singh emphasized that the ministry’s approach includes deploying additional officers for monitoring adherence to the new wage laws, improving conditions for workers at a crucial time.
This careful balance of policy decisions aims to create a hopeful outlook for the future of workers, as governments increasingly emphasize the importance of fair compensation in light of economic challenges.
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