On May 23, 2023, the Karnataka government announced a 60% increase in minimum wages for laborers, ensuring that those in Bengaluru will receive a minimum of ₹23,376 per month, while skilled workers will earn ₹31,114. This decision, communicated by Labour Minister Santosh Lad, addresses a long-standing demand from the labor community in the state. The revised minimum wages in other regions of Karnataka will range from ₹19,300 to ₹21,251 per month. The wage revision adheres to directives from the Supreme Court of India, marking a significant structural reform in the state's labor framework. Additionally, the government has replaced the previous four-zone classification system with a unified notification that encompasses all scheduled employments for the first time. This change is expected to provide economic security to workers in the unorganised sector and will directly benefit lakhs of workers across 81 scheduled occupations. Minister Lad expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, and other officials for their support in this initiative.