The Central Government has notified the Code on Wages (Central) Rules, 2026 on 08th May 2026 vide Gazette of India (Extraordinary), No. 309.

CG Notification Number: CG-DL-E-08052026-272365.

Key Highlights:

Existing wage-related laws (Minimum Wages Rules, Payment of Wages Rules, Bonus Rules, and Equal Remuneration Rules) have been unified.
Every wage will now be calculated daily and an hourly/monthly wage calculation with Minimum Wages has been introduced.
Twice a year, the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) will change depending on the Consumer Price Index.
The maximum number of standard working hours has been unified to be 8 hours in a day or 48 hours work week.
Introduced are the provisions for a weekly rest day, which will be a paid day and will be a paid rest day if worked.
Regardless of the clear provisions for rest day work, the wages for that day will still be paid, with a clear double the wage provision, for the rest day.
A Digital compliance framework that streamlines and centralizes employer compliance to allow for ease of communication.
For the client, the contractor, and the employer, wages and bonuses are to be paid by the contractor.
A clear 50% wage limit has been introduced for wage deductions for the wage period considered.
For fines, deductions, damage recoveries, and employee clarifications, a clear process has been established.
New standard electronic registers, templates, and wage slip guidelines for all enterprises.
The Rules now allow for online submission of wage-related claims and appeals.

Code on Wages (Central) Rules,2026 Notified by Central Government