Minimum Wages in Maharashtra 2026: Category-wise Monthly Rates
Minimum wages in Maharashtra are fixed by the state government under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948 (now subsumed by the Code on Wages, 2019 where notified), and vary by skill category, area/zone and scheduled employment. They are revised periodically through a Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) linked to the Consumer Price Index.
The figures below are indicative monthly ranges as of the effective Jan–Jun 2026 (revised Jan & Jul) revision. Because Maharashtra notifies rates per scheduled employment (and, in many cases, per zone), the exact wage floor for a specific role and location must be confirmed against the latest official notification.
Minimum wage rates (effective Jan–Jun 2026 (revised Jan & Jul))
| Category | Monthly | Daily |
|---|---|---|
| Unskilled | ₹14,500 – ₹16,900 | — |
| Semi-skilled | ₹15,500 – ₹17,500 | — |
| Skilled | ₹17,000 – ₹19,400 | — |
Zone I (Mumbai–Pune–Thane); Zones II & III are lower. Basic + special allowance (VDA).
Maharashtra revises minimum wages via VDA (revision noted: effective Jan–Jun 2026 (revised Jan & Jul)); always check the current notification before finalising payroll.
For employers
- Pay at least the notified minimum wage for the employee's skill category, zone and scheduled employment — whichever is higher where multiple apply.
- Maintain wage registers and pay within the statutory timeline under the Payment of Wages Act / Code on Wages.
- Underpayment attracts penalties and back-wage liability — verify the current notified rate, as VDA revisions change figures roughly twice a year.
Source: husys.com & ezhrm.in state minimum-wage tables (2026); cross-referenced. Rates revise via VDA — verify the latest notification before use.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in Maharashtra in 2026?
How often do minimum wages change?
Are these figures the exact legal minimum?
Explore the platform
Payroll & compliance, on autopilot.
Free for unlimited employees — PF, ESI, PT & TDS handled every cycle.