The Government of West Bengal has notified revised Minimum Rates of Wages for employees engaged in various Scheduled Employments. The revised wages are effective from 1 July 2026 to 31 December 2026 and are applicable based on Zone A and Zone B classifications
Revised Minimum Wages – Shops & Establishments
| Category | Zone A (Monthly) | Zone A (Daily) | Zone B (Monthly) | Zone B (Daily) |
| Unskilled | ₹10,558 | ₹406 | ₹9,760 | ₹375 |
| Semi-Skilled | ₹11,615 | ₹447 | ₹10,733 | ₹413 |
| Skilled | ₹12,777 | ₹491 | ₹11,807 | ₹454 |
| Highly Skilled | ₹14,054 | ₹541 | ₹12,990 | ₹500 |
Illustrative Categories of Employees
| Skill Category | Illustrative Designations |
| Unskilled | Peon, Cleaner, Sweeper, Security Guard, Bearer, Messenger |
| Semi-Skilled | Duftry, Assistant Accountant |
| Skilled | Clerk, Typist, Office Assistant, Office Maintenance & Inventory Staff, Data Entry Operator, Accountant |
| Highly Skilled | Head Assistant, Senior Accountant, Computer Operator, Research & Development Staff/Executive, Market Research Staff/Executive, Godown-in-Charge, Office Supervisor, Sales Representative/Sales Promotion Employee |
Zone Classification
Zone A: Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, Notified Areas, Development Authorities and Thermal Power Plant Areas including Township Areas.
Zone B: Remaining areas of West Bengal.
Important Compliance Points
- Monthly wages are divided by 26 to arrive at the daily wage.
- A normal working day consists of 8 hours, subject to 48 hours per week.
- Work on weekly rest days or beyond normal working hours must be paid at double the ordinary rate.
- Higher existing wages must continue to be protected.
- The revised wages apply to contractor employees as well.
- Men and women must receive equal wages for the same or similar work.
What Employers Should Do
- Review employee skill classifications.
- Identify the correct geographical zone.
- Update payroll from 1 July 2026.
- Ensure contractor compliance.
- Maintain statutory records.
Conclusion
Employers covered under the West Bengal Shops & Establishments framework should review payroll immediately to ensure compliance with the revised minimum wage notification effective 1 July 2026.
Prepared by Chheda Consultancy Services LLP
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