Battery sector minimum wage proposed at Tk 13,275

The Minimum Wage Board has proposed a new minimum monthly wage of Tk 13,275 for workers in the battery manufacturing sector.

Under the proposal, workers would also receive a 5.0 per cent annual wage increment, along with a risk allowance for those directly engaged in the sector.

The Board under the Ministry of Labour and Employment issued a notification on February 10, announcing the proposal and inviting objections or recommendations within 14 days of publication.

According to the draft proposal, a Grade Four worker would receive a minimum monthly wage of Tk 13,275, including Tk 6,650 as basic pay.

A house rent allowance of Tk 3325, equivalent to 50 per cent of the basic pay, will be provided. Besides, they are entitled to Tk 1,300 as medical allowance, Tk 1000 as transportation allowance, and Tk 1,000 as risk allowance.

The proposal also includes wages for workers in upper grades.

Grade Three workers would receive Tk 15,075, including Tk 7,850 as basic pay, Grade Two workers Tk 18,750, including Tk 10,300 as basic pay, and Grade One workers Tk 21,750, including Tk 12,300 as basic pay. On the other hand, an apprentice worker would receive a total monthly wage of Tk 10,000.

The gazette also proposes a monthly wage of Tk 12,175 for Grade Four employees, Tk 14,075 for Grade Three employees, Tk 17,750 for Grade Two employees and Tk 20,750 for Grade One employees.

At the end of 2024, the government incorporated 15 new sectors, including battery manufacturing sector, under the formal wage framework to introduce minimum wage.

Munni_fe@yahoo.com