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.

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.

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.
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