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EDITION: INDIA & GLOBAL · 10 Sep 2026

Workers handling a large container on a trailer in Jakarta, showcasing industrial transportation. — Photo: Aan Amrin

Hamali Unions to Meet Government Over Rs 28‑to‑Rs 40 Wage Hike Demand

The Ministry of Labour will hold a joint meeting with Hamali unions demanding an increase in loading and unloading wages from Rs 28 to Rs 40 per quintal, citing rising living costs.

By SamacharDaily Editorial Team • 29 Aug 2026, 03:06 PM IST • 1 min read

Key Takeaways & Quick Context

The Development: The Ministry of Labour will hold a joint meeting with Hamali unions demanding an increase in loading and unloading wages from Rs 28 to Rs 40 per quintal, citing rising living costs.
Strategic Significance: The wage hike, if approved, would raise labor costs for ports, rail yards and warehouses, potentially increasing freight charges and affecting the price of goods...
Next Phase: Government officials will convene the joint meeting with Hamali union representatives within the next week at the Ministry of Labour headquarters. Both sides are expected to present detailed cost calculations, after which a recommendation will be forwarded to the state labour commissioner for final approval and possible amendment of the prevailing wage order.

The Ministry of Labour has agreed to hold a joint meeting with the Hamali unions representing dock and warehouse workers, following the unions' demand to raise the loading and unloading wage from Rs 28 to Rs 40 per quintal.

Union leaders argue that the current rate has been eroded by steep increases in petrol, diesel, cooking gas, essential commodities and electricity over the past two years, leaving workers unable to meet basic expenses.

ALSO READ | India and ASEAN Nations Chart Scalable Agricultural Cooperation at Summit

Officials said the meeting will review the wage structure in line with the Minimum Wages Act and recent inflation data, and will consider the financial impact on logistics firms and the broader supply chain.

Video: IFTU Hamali workers Union held mass meeting at kesamudram speak by com.Gouni ilaiah ex ZPTCBayyaram

Watch on YouTube ↗

Why This Matters

The wage hike, if approved, would raise labor costs for ports, rail yards and warehouses, potentially increasing freight charges and affecting the price of goods across the economy.

It also tests the government's ability to balance workers' cost‑of‑living pressures with the competitiveness of India's logistics sector, a key driver of trade and employment.

Reporting based on verified dispatches from The Hans India. View primary release ↗

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