In a major development, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has approved a wage structure revision for approximately 20,000 permanent employees at 12 major ports. This decision, announced on Wednesday, comes after a marathon negotiation between the Bipartite Wage Negotiation Committee (BWNC) and the Indian Port Association (IPA). Also ReadIndia’s vision for industrial growth: Cabinet approves 12 smart cities with Rs 28,602 crore investment New Wage Agreement Details Under the new agreement, workers will receive a fitment benefit of 8.5% on their basic pay as of December 31, 2021, along with a 30% Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) effective from January 1, 2022. This wage revision addresses various service conditions, including pensionary benefits. The agreement, which includes a special monthly allowance of Rs 500 during the settlement period, is set to be effective from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2026. The decision to revise the wage structure was finalized following successful discussions between workers' unions and port management in New Delhi. As a result, port and dock workers' unions have deferred their indefinite strike planned for August 28, 2024. The unions had initially planned the strike over wage issues, but the timely intervention by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has resolved the matter. A draft committee will convene on August 28, 2024, to finalize the settlement within ten days. This committee will consist of representatives from each federation and management representatives appointed by the IPA Chairman. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has expressed its commitment to fostering a harmonious working environment across Indian ports through this timely resolution. Also ReadWhich countries have highest number of skyscrapers? – Know where India stands The Bipartite Wage Negotiation Committee, which was established in March 2021 and led by Mumbai Port Authority Chairman Rajeev Jalota, had held seven meetings over 32 months before reaching this agreement. The six federations involved in the negotiations have expressed their appreciation for the prompt resolution and guidance provided by the ministry.
