A 35% increase in minimum wages announced by Haryana on April 1, 2026, aimed at improving workers' welfare, has sparked widespread protests across India's industrial belt, particularly in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, and Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. The wage hike raised the monthly pay for unskilled workers from about ₹11,200 to over ₹15,200 (approximately $135 to $180 USD). Workers in Noida, noticing disparities in pay for identical work across state lines, began to demand equal wages, leading to escalating unrest. By April 13, protests turned violent, resulting in clashes with police, road blockages, and significant public disruption, with around 200 people detained. The protests reflect deeper frustrations over rising living costs and stagnant wages. As tensions grew, the Uttar Pradesh government announced a 20-21% wage increase, raising unskilled wages to about ₹13,690 (roughly $165 USD) in an attempt to address the unrest. However, protests continued, spreading to Bhiwadi, where workers echoed similar demands. The situation highlights the interconnected nature of labor issues across state borders in India’s industrial landscape.