Agartala, June 20 – In a significant move aimed at improving the lives of its tea garden workers, the Tripura government today announced an increase in their daily wages from Rs 176 to Rs 204. Labour Minister Tinku Roy, addressing the media this afternoon, confirmed the revised rates, bringing a much-awaited relief to thousands of families in the state’s tea estates.
This latest hike comes after a considerable gap, with the last revision occurring in January 2018 when the daily wage for adult workers was set at Rs 176, up from Rs 105. For minor workers, the wage had increased from Rs 52.50 to Rs 88 at that time. The recent decision follows a concerted effort by a 10-member committee, chaired by MLA Swapna Das Pal from the 46-Surma Assembly Constituency. This committee, formed for a six-month tenure, was specifically tasked with reviewing all aspects pertaining to the wage revision for tea garden workers across Tripura.
Minister Roy elaborated that the committee convened on May 28, with all its members present, to deliberate on the crucial matter. After thorough consideration of various factors, the committee recommended a 16 percent increase in the minimum wage. This recommendation, which saw the adult worker’s daily wage go from Rs 176 to Rs 204 and minor worker’s from Rs 88 to Rs 102, has now received the State Government’s stamp of approval.
Beyond the wage increase, Minister Roy highlighted the government’s broader commitment to the welfare of tea garden workers. He emphasised that, unlike in the past where workers fended for themselves, the current administration is actively providing essential amenities. This includes access to housing under schemes like the PM Awas Yojana, along with provisions for land, ration cards, electricity, water, and sanitation facilities. The minister proudly stated that 6,595 tea garden worker families have already benefited from these initiatives, with 3,166 families receiving land pattas over the past six years. He assured that the remaining families would soon follow suit. Furthermore, 4,922 families have been issued priority group ration cards, further underscoring the government’s efforts to uplift this vital segment of the workforce.
Also read: Foreign Social Media Accounts Fueling Radical Agenda in Assam, Alleges CM Sarma