Minimum wage laws in Nepal vary depending on the sector in which an employee works. However, the national minimum wage for unskilled labor is currently set at NRs 13,450 (approximately $119) per month.
| Per month | Dearness Allowance per month | Total per month | |
| Domestic workers
Minimum wage with effect from January 1, 2019
|
NPR13,450.00 | – | – |
| General Minimum Wage
Minimum wage with effect from July 16, 2021
|
NPR9,385.00 | NPR5,615.00 | NPR15,000.00 |
| Employees working in a tea estate
Minimum wage with effect from July 16, 2021
|
NPR12,081.00 | – | – |
While the minimum wage may be enough to cover basic necessities such as food and shelter, it may not be enough to support a comfortable standard of living. Many workers in Nepal struggle to make ends meet and are often forced to take on multiple jobs in order to make a living wage.
It’s important to note that the cost of living varies significantly across the country and in major cities like Kathmandu it may be higher than in rural areas. It’s also worth mentioning that the minimum wage in Nepal is less than the global poverty line of $1.90 per day.
Additionally, it’s important to consider that a higher minimum wage would not only benefit workers, but also stimulate economic growth by increasing consumer spending.
In conclusion, the current minimum wage in Nepal may not be enough for workers to live a comfortable lifestyle and support their families. The government should consider raising the minimum wage to a level that would provide a living wage for all workers in the country.
