CODE ON WAGES
Tea industry groups back panel's proposal for minimum sustainable price as costs outpace prices
Five tea industry associations have welcomed the government committee's recommendation for a minimum sustainable price for tea. This recommendation aims to address rising production costs that are exceeding the prices received by producers. The proposed benchmark price is linked to wage movements and consumer price indices, which will be reviewed periodically. Producers believe this pricing mechanism will help absorb wage increases and support investment in tea production.
Why did you come back? The Indian dream beyond India's borders
The trend of Indian emigration continues, driven by aspirations for better opportunities abroad. Despite improvements in India, many individuals still seek to leave the country. Historical patterns of migration are linked to economic conditions and personal ambitions. The allure of the United States remains significant for many professionals. However, immigration policies may restrict future movement and opportunities for those seeking success.
Canada launches free CRS calculator to help Express Entry candidates check new high-wage points
CanadaVisa has released a free online calculator for Express Entry candidates to determine their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores following the implementation of Canada's high-wage occupation changes, effective November 3, 2026. The updated calculator factors in points for qualifying high-wage Canadian work experience or job offers, alongside other CRS factors such as age, education, language skills and employment history.
AI gains fail to cool rising staff costs at Indian IT services firms
Although artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are changing the traditional labour-intensive model of IT services, they have yet to bring down employee costs for the country’s top six IT services companies—Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, HCLTech, Wipro, Tech Mahindra and LTM (formerly LTIMindtree).
Make urban legend real: Our cities must become far more business-friendly for India to achieve high per-capita income
India's urban population has grown slowly, with a significant portion living in small rural habitations. The country requires substantial rural-urban migration to boost urbanisation and economic productivity. Urban centres must create favorable business environments to attract new and expanding enterprises. State governments should implement measures to alleviate urban land scarcity and improve labor regulations.
The business of running a hospital: Balancing profitability, patient trust and scale
A hospital’s financial health depends on more than occupancy and revenue, requiring a careful balance of cost control, cash flow and patient trust.
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India’s Arrakis problem: The price of what low-skilled workers know
Indian workers contribute valuable data for training AI systems, which is transforming how tasks are automated. As technology advances, low-cost labour is becoming a significant resource for AI development globally. Companies are increasingly relying on Indian workers for video data that demonstrates various physical tasks. This trend poses challenges regarding data ownership and the economic benefits for India.
EPS pension hike: Can EPFO increase minimum monthly pension from Rs 1,000 at its proposed November 19 meeting?
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation may discuss increasing the minimum monthly pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme. A proposal to raise the pension from Rs 1,000 is anticipated during the next Central Board of Trustees meeting.
No additional EPS contribution by government on higher wage ceiling of Rs 25,000; know what it means for your pension
EPS pension: In a recent notification, the central government confirmed that the Employees' Pension Scheme contribution will remain at the current cap of Rs 15,000, despite announcing a new wage ceiling of Rs 25,000. This choice reflects findings from earlier actuarial evaluations pointing to a potential funding shortfall. Additionally, the government has promised supplementary budgetary support to ensure current pension payouts, although sustainability concerns have been voiced in Parliament.
Gratuity calculator: What can be your gratuity on Rs 50,000 last-drawn pay and 10 years of service?
Gratuity is an essential payment made by employers in recognition of employees' long-standing loyalty and service. Typically, employees qualify for gratuity after achieving five years of continuous tenure, with some specific exceptions. The amount granted is determined by the final monthly salary and total years served.
Pakistan's factory workers swelter in extreme heat as global brands fail on safety pledges
Workers in Karachi's garment factories face extreme heat and unsafe conditions while producing clothing for international brands. Many report health issues due to the high temperatures and lack of adequate protections from their employers. Complaints about working conditions often go ignored, leading to serious health repercussions for workers. Some companies have pledged to improve safety measures, but implementation remains insufficient.
Company townhall and results can tell 2 different tales; here's what to check if you are worried about your next hike or promotion
Keep manager’s reassurance and employer’s financials apart, says Devashish Chakravarty. Every three months, listed companies must disclose important events to the stock exchange and most of them explain their numbers to analysts. Long before you find an email from your HR, the company has already announced its hiring freeze or restructuring plans in its earnings call.
India Inc to give 9.1% pay hike in 2027, almost similar to 2026: Aon
In 2027, employees across India Inc are projected to enjoy a salary boost of 9.1%, as reported by Aon Plc. However, the attrition rate has surged to 18% in 2026, a significant rise from previous years. Non-banking financial firms are anticipated to lead the charge with a 10.1% wage increase.
Planning a job switch? These sectors may see the biggest salary hikes in 2027
Salaries in India are projected to increase by 9.1% in 2027 after a 9% rise in 2026. Non-banking financial companies are expected to lead in salary growth with an increase of 10.1%. Employers face challenges in retaining talent amid rising attrition rates and the implementation of the Wage Code. AI skill demand is growing as companies adopt AI productivity tools at a significant pace.
DA hike for central government employees: AIDEF urges cabinet secretary, Finance Ministry to announce DA hike soon, increase in bonus ceiling
DA hike: Central government employees and pensioners are in eager anticipation of the upcoming announcement regarding the dearness allowance and relief hike. The All India Defence Employees’ Association is urging the government to speed up this declaration. They also propose a significant increase in the performance-linked bonus ceiling, from Rs 7,000 to Rs 21,000.
California's minimum wage rate for 2027 is $17.4 an hour, but these workers are set to earn more than that
California's minimum wage is set to rise to $17.40 an hour, effective January 1, 2027. But various local and industry-specific wages may exceed this statewide rate. Certain cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles are known for higher minimum wages. The federal minimum wage remains significantly lower at $7.25 per hour since 2009.
Thai arms smuggler gets six years in jail for role in NSCN (IM) arms procurement conspiracy
Willy Naruenartwanich was sentenced to six years in prison for his role in an arms procurement conspiracy. The conspiracy involved the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (IM) seeking to acquire weapons. Naruenartwanich acted as a key conspirator and middleman in the arms network. The case reflects the efforts made by the National Investigation Agency to combat international arms smuggling.
FDA seizes 1,394kg of banana from an APMC in Navi Mumbai allegedly being treated with a banned chemical to make the ripe
In a recent operation, food safety authorities confiscated approximately 1.4 tonnes of bananas at the APMC Fruit Market located in Turbhe. These bananas were reportedly treated with a chemical solution to accelerate ripening artificially. The seized lot, valued at an estimated Rs 67,814, sparked concerns regarding the authenticity of the packaging and the health implications of ethephon residues present on the fruit.
Two friends built a £17 million business using Instagram after a £30,000 deal fell through
When an investor backed out of a £30,000 deal, childhood friends Jessica Lancaster and Charlotte Stagg didn't give up. Starting with just £2,000 and a home printer, they leveraged a clever Instagram strategy to turn a simple idea into Coconut Lane. Today, their fully self-funded empire generates over £17 million in annual revenue.
EPF wage ceiling hike: How it impacts employee & employer's contributions to EPF, EPS and take-home pay
While the higher ceiling does have an impact on immediate net cash take-home of the employee due to increased contribution, it will certainly support building of future corpus for retirement and higher pension by way of contribution to the provident fund and pension scheme.
Indian IT’s Q2 earnings dilemma deepens: More deals but weaker growth and falling pricing power
As Indian IT firms gear up for their Q2 earnings report, the landscape appears mixed. Strong deal activity persists, yet clients are pushing for higher efficiency, leading to a notable decline in revenue growth. Large IT companies may witness their weakest growth in three years, primarily due to acquisitions rather than organic expansion. Infosys is under a microscope for possible downward adjustments to its revenue guidance.
EPS pension benefit: Basic salary up to Rs 25,000 but no employer EPS contribution? Here’s where to complain
Employees participating in the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) should verify that their employers are making necessary contributions. Should an employer neglect these payments, employees are advised to first reach out to their Human Resource department. If the issue persists, complaints can be filed via the EPFiGMS portal, enabling users to track their complaint's progress.
Ashok Leyland: A stronger balance sheet inside a business that will always remain cyclical
Quarterly numbers tell you what happened. But they do not always tell you why it happened. In commercial vehicles, demand can change because of many reasons: Interest rates, freight movement, regulation, vehicle utilisation, or simply the age of the fleet. This story looks at the factors that matter most for Ashok Leyland and uses the numbers to show how each one affects the business.
Ashok Leyland's best year in its history, and what the annual report says about holding on to it
Ashok Leyland sold more commercial vehicles in FY26 than in any year since it was founded, earned its highest-ever profit, and closed with Rs. 5,899 crore of net cash. Where does the company go from here? What strategies will it adopt? A close reading of the 340-page annual report, along with the company's year-end call and the June-quarter filing, provides the answers.
US H-1B lottery changes from October 1: What Indian workers should know about new wage-based selection system
Starting October 1, 2026, the US will implement a new H-1B visa selection method based on higher wages. This new system will give more entries to registrations at higher wage levels, improving chances for applicants. Indian professionals, who represent a significant portion of H-1B workers, will be particularly affected by these changes. Employers will need to provide evidence supporting wage claims during the registration process to avoid issues.
Employers face compliance hurdles as states delay notification of Labour Code rules
Ten states and union territories have formally adopted some Labour Codes, creating compliance challenges for companies. Major industrial states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have delayed notifying rules, causing confusion for employers. Inconsistencies between central and state rules complicate adherence to labour laws.
EPS pension: Basic pay above Rs 25,000? Why you may not qualify for EPS membership
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation has introduced updated guidelines concerning EPS membership for workers. Employers are obligated to verify the wages and prior EPS membership status of new hires. Employees earning Rs 25,000 or less must be enrolled in EPS, while others have distinct criteria. Accurate deductions are vital for employers to avert complications in upcoming claims.
Companies upset as states delay labour codes adoption
Major industrial states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Telangana, Haryana and Punjab are taking longer than expected to notify the final rules, leaving employers in a flux over several divergent provisions. HR departments say they now have to navigate Centre-state rules that don't align, creating inconsistencies in compliance requirements.
How employees contributing to EPF on actual wage basis can be impacted due to hike in EPF wage ceiling limit
As of September 17, 2026, the EPF wage ceiling is set to increase from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000. This adjustment does not affect employees whose earnings exceed Rs 25,000. Those earning between Rs 15,000 and Rs 25,000 will experience negligible changes to their contributions. Notably, EPS contributions will rise for employees hired prior to September 2014. Employers are responsible for managing increased contributions while keeping their salary structures intact.
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