Image Credits : Sagar Sandesh
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has approved a long-awaited revision of the wage structure for workers at the country’s major ports.
The wage revision, which had been under discussion for several months, will affect workers across 12 major ports in India, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. The new wage structure is expected to bring substantial financial relief to port workers, whose demands for better compensation have gained momentum amid rising living costs and inflation.
Minister Sonowal’s approval comes after extensive consultations with port authorities, labour unions, and other stakeholders. The revised wage structure aims to ensure fair compensation while maintaining the financial sustainability of the ports. It also seeks to address disparities in pay across different categories of workers, providing a more equitable framework that reflects the skills and responsibilities of the workforce.
The revision includes an increase in basic pay, enhanced allowances, and improved benefits, which are expected to boost the morale and productivity of port workers. Additionally, the new structure introduces measures to address wage-related grievances more effectively, with a focus on timely resolution and transparency.
Minister Sonowal’s approval is expected to be followed by formal notifications from the respective port authorities outlining the specific details of the revised wage structure and the implementation timeline. The new wage structure is anticipated to be rolled out in the coming months, with backdated payments likely to be included as part of the package.
The revision of wages at major ports is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of India’s maritime sector. As the country continues to position itself as a global maritime hub, the well-being of port workers remains a top priority for the government, which recognizes their indispensable contribution to the economy.