Haryana Hikes Wages Amid Protests

The state of India — Haryana, India, ordered a 35% increase in minimum wages for unskilled factory workers, raising it to $165 per month, effective April 1. This decision followed widespread protests and boycotts by workers in industrial hubs like Manesar, who were demanding higher pay to cope with soaring living costs. The rising costs are attributed to a severe gas crisis in India, which is the world's second-largest LPG importer, and higher raw material prices stemming from the US-Israeli war on Iran. The wage hike will increase cost pressures for India's auto industry, which includes major players like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and their suppliers such as Munjal Showa and Roop Polymers. Some companies have already raised car prices, while others, like Maruti Suzuki, have warned of similar moves. The unrest also led to production disruptions at several auto suppliers, with migrant workers returning to their villages due to economic hardship.