UP Govt announces up to 21% wage hike after violent protests by workers in Noida
Babushahi Bureau
Noida (Uttar Pradesh), April 14, 2026: A day after violent protests by factory workers disrupted normal life in Noida, the Uttar Pradesh Government has announced an interim increase in minimum wages, offering relief to thousands of workers across the state.
Under the revised structure, unskilled workers in Noida and Ghaziabad will receive a wage hike of up to 21 percent. Workers employed in other municipal areas will see a 15 percent increase, while those in rural and other regions will get a 9 percent hike. The government has clarified that the revised wages will be applicable retrospectively from April 1, 2026.
The decision comes in the wake of large-scale protests that erupted on Monday, with workers demanding a significant increase in wages amid rising living costs. The demonstrations turned violent, severely affecting transport and daily activities in key industrial zones.
Responding to demands for a fixed minimum wage of ₹20,000 per month, the government rejected the proposal, stating that such claims are not feasible at present. Officials acknowledged that non-compliance by some employers with existing wage norms had contributed to worker dissatisfaction.
To address the issue in a structured manner, the state government has announced plans to set up a Wage Board next month. The board will review wage structures and submit recommendations, following which a final decision on minimum wages will be taken.
Meanwhile, authorities have increased vigilance in the affected areas and appealed to workers to maintain calm. The government expressed hope that the interim hike, along with ongoing dialogue, will help restore stability in the industrial sector.