Big Relief for UP Farm Workers: Minimum Wage Raised to ₹6,552 Monthly

Key highlights

• Minimum wage for farm workers is now ₹252/day or ₹6,552/month.

• Applies to all agriculture-related jobs, including dairy and poultry.

• The hourly wage is fixed at ₹42 to protect part-time workers.

• Wages can be paid via cash, produce, or digital methods.

• Lakhs of rural workers to benefit from this wage reform.

In a major step to improve the livelihood of rural and agricultural workers, the Uttar Pradesh government has increased the minimum wage for agricultural laborers. Now, all adult farm workers in the state will receive at least ₹252 per day or ₹6,552 per month. This move will bring financial relief to lakhs of rural families and is seen as a major step towards the Yogi government's worker-friendly policies.

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Wages Increased for All Agriculture-Based Activities

Dr. M.K. Shanmuga Sundaram, Principal Secretary of Labour and Employment, confirmed that this new wage rate will apply to all agriculture-based jobs. This includes not only traditional farming but also allied activities such as:

• Dairy production

• Animal husbandry

• Beekeeping

• Poultry farming

• Mushroom cultivation

• Transport of agricultural produce to markets

Workers engaged in these sectors will now be legally entitled to the minimum wage of ₹252 per day.

Hourly Wages Also Fixed to Protect Short-Term Workers

The UP government has also addressed the needs of short-term or part-time agricultural workers. From now on, the hourly wage rate cannot be less than one-sixth of the daily wage. This means the minimum hourly wage is ₹42 (₹252 divided by 6). This rule ensures that even those who work part-time or for short durations get fair compensation.

Importantly, if any worker is already earning more than this fixed rate, that higher wage will continue to be valid and considered the minimum for that worker.

Payment Through Digital and Other Means

To bring more transparency and efficiency, the state government has allowed wage payments through various modes. These include:

• Cash

• Partial cash

• Payment through agricultural produce

• Digital payments

However, the total wage paid through any method must not be less than ₹252 per day. The push for digital transactions in rural areas is also expected to strengthen the rural economy and reduce wage-related disputes.

Lakhs of Workers to Benefit from This Wage Hike

This move is expected to directly benefit lakhs of agricultural workers across Uttar Pradesh. It is seen as a structural reform in labor policies, aiming to provide:

• Stability in income

• Financial security

• Improved living standards

• Respect and dignity for rural laborers

The new wage policy supports the government's larger goal of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” by empowering rural workers and promoting self-reliance among them.

Focus on Worker Safety and Welfare

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has repeatedly stated that the welfare and safety of workers are a top priority for his government. In recent years, crores of unorganized workers have been connected to government schemes via the e-Shram portal. The new Minimum Wage Notification 2025 is now being seen as another major step in improving the lives of workers.

This decision not only enhances wages but also reflects the government’s commitment to building a secure and self-reliant rural workforce.

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CMV360 Says

This wage hike marks a significant step in improving the lives of agricultural workers in Uttar Pradesh. By ensuring fair wages, protecting short-term workers, and promoting digital payments, the government aims to boost rural income and dignity. It reflects the Yogi government’s strong commitment to labor welfare and rural development under its vision of inclusive growth and worker empowerment.