The Punjab government has raised the minimum employment age to 16 years to combat child labor. This move was unveiled during a crucial meeting led by Punjab Labour Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar. The new policy aims to protect young workers and ensure their rights are safeguarded.
Minimum Wage in Pakistan 2024
During the meeting, Khokhar also announced the formation of a special task force dedicated to enforcing a minimum wage of Rs 37,000. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance workers’ conditions across the province. In a bid to streamline wage distribution, the government will require that all wages be transferred through bank accounts. To address grievances swiftly, a dedicated complaints cell has been established within the Labour Department.
Labor Unions in Pakistan
The government is also focusing on promoting the formation of labor unions and upholding workers’ right to association. Employment agencies will now be regulated under labor laws to ensure compliance and protect workers’ rights. Additionally, strict measures will be implemented to eradicate child labor, aligning with the constitutional mandate which currently sets the minimum employment age at 14 years.
