HUMLA: Despite the government’s recent decision to raise the minimum wage, workers in Humla are still forced to work for wages far below the legal threshold.
The Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security has set the new minimum wage effective from the current fiscal year. According to the updated rates, the monthly minimum wage (excluding tea estate workers) is Rs. 19,550, with daily wages set at Rs. 754, hourly wages at Rs. 101, and Rs. 107 for part-time workers.
These rates were determined under Sub-section 1 of Section 106 of the Labor Act 2074, in line with recommendations from the Minimum Wage Fixation Committee as per Section 107.
However, workers in Humla report being paid only Rs. 200 to 500 per day. Many wage-based laborers said they receive just Rs. 6,000 to 7,000 per month, far below the legal minimum.
Workers claim that local consumer committees overseeing development projects often cite financial losses to justify such low pay, typically offering a maximum of Rs. 500 and as little as Rs. 200 per day.
Even when funds for these projects have been disbursed, workers say payment is often delayed. “Although the schemes are paid for, we haven’t received our wages yet,” said Nawaraj Karki of Adanchuli-3.
He alleged that wages are distributed based on local precedent rather than official rates, and that unfair practices—such as favoring projects tied to certain households or landowners—are contributing to the problem.
Karki also speculated that the underpayment may be linked to corruption, suggesting some schemes may have been secured through bribes or commissions, though no one openly admits it.
Due to these issues, local workers are struggling not only to earn a fair wage but also to meet their daily household needs. They continue to face hardships as wage delays and underpayment disrupt their ability to provide for their families.
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