Hello,
Which establishment act is applicable to you?
If you are in the manufacturing sector with technology for which a specific schedule exists, you have to follow that schedule. Depending on whether you treat your categories as USK or SSK, you will have to follow the stipulated Minimum Wages for these categories.
If, however, you are in an engineering industry and no specific schedule exists for your technology, then you will have to follow a schedule called "Factories under Factories Act" also known as the "Residuary schedule" and stipulated minimum wages for applicable categories, i.e., USK or SSK.
If you are covered under the Shops & Commercial Establishment Act, you will have to follow the schedule that exists as "Employment in Shops & Commercial Establishments Act."
I am saying all this on the assumption that you operate in the state of Maharashtra. In such a case, one more thing you should remember is that these schedules are applicable for skills, categories, and trades for your own and contractors' employees working on your premises. However, regarding security, you will be governed by the Maharashtra Private Security Guards (Regulation of Employment & Welfare) Act and the Scheme thereunder. (Kindly check out this name for accuracy.)
This response should generally answer queries, but if you have more questions, feel free to contact again! And, yes, just remember that Minimum Wages - the component called Special Allowance changes every six months!!
Regards,
Samvedan
April 26, 2009