Gurugram : Deepak Maini, Chairman of the Progressive Federation of Trade and Industry, has raised serious concerns over the proposal to increase the minimum wages of unskilled workers in Haryana from ₹11,257 to ₹15,200 per month.
Highlighting the implications of the proposed hike, Maini said the nearly ₹4,000 increase would place a significant financial burden on industries, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He noted that the actual cost impact would extend beyond wages, as statutory obligations such as EPF, ESI, bonus, and gratuity would further raise the per-employee burden to around ₹7,000.
He cautioned that in the current economic environment—marked by rising production costs, increasing raw material prices, and higher operational expenses—a steep, one-time wage revision could strain MSMEs and potentially push several units towards closure. Such a development, he warned, could adversely impact employment generation and overall industrial activity.
Maini also expressed apprehension that an abrupt implementation of the revised wages could prompt industries to relocate to other states, thereby affecting Haryana’s competitiveness and investment climate.
Referring to prior consultations, he said that PFTI had recommended to the state labour authorities that the wage increase be introduced in a phased manner. According to the proposal, the hike should be spread over a period of five years, allowing industries to gradually absorb the additional costs without facing sudden financial stress.
Urging a balanced approach, Maini called on the state government to carefully consider the concerns of industry stakeholders before issuing the final notification. He emphasized the need for a phased implementation model that safeguards workers’ welfare while also ensuring industrial stability and sustained economic growth.