Know Your Rights at Work

1 · Minimum wages in Kerala (2026)

Kerala revises minimum wages by category and skill level. Indicative monthly figures (verify with the Kerala Labour Department for your exact scheduled employment):

വേതനം ഇതിലും കുറവാണെങ്കിൽ Kerala Labour Department-ൽ പരാതി നൽകാം.

2 · Working hours & overtime

• Maximum 8 hours/day and 48 hours/week.
• Overtime paid at 1.5× the regular wage.
• Rest break of at least 30 minutes after 5 hours of work.
• One full day off every week is mandatory.

ദിവസം 8 മണിക്കൂർ, ആഴ്ചയിൽ 48 മണിക്കൂർ — അധികസമയത്തിന് 1.5 മടങ്ങ് വേതനം.

3 · Leave entitlements

• Annual leave: 1 day for every 20 days worked.
• Sick leave: up to 12 days per year.
• Maternity leave: 26 weeks (paid) under the Maternity Benefit Act.
• Paternity leave: ~15 days (varies by employer/policy).
• National & festival holidays: typically up to 14 days/year.

4 · PF & ESI

• EPF: 12% employer + 12% employee contribution.
• ESI: applies for monthly salary under ₹21,000.
• Check your PF balance on the EPFO portal or by SMS/UMANG app.
• PF withdrawal/transfer is done online via the EPFO member portal.

5 · Termination & gratuity

• Notice period as per your appointment letter (commonly 1 month).
• Gratuity after 5+ years of service: (15 × last drawn salary × years) ÷ 26.
• Wrongful termination can be challenged before the Labour Commissioner.

തെറ്റായ പിരിച്ചുവിടലിനെതിരെ Labour Commissioner-ന് പരാതി നൽകാം.

6 · Women at work

• No night shift without the employee’s consent and safe transport.
• Workplace harassment is covered by the POSH Act — every workplace must have an Internal Complaints Committee.
• Full maternity benefits and equal pay for equal work.
• Kerala Women’s Commission helpline: 1091.

7 · Gulf worker rights

• Keep a copy of your labour contract and visa; never hand over your passport.
• For unpaid salary, file with the UAE labour ministry (MOHRE) or your embassy.
• Indian Embassy Abu Dhabi & Consulate Dubai assist with labour disputes.
• NORKA-Roots helpline (Kerala): 1800 425 3939.

Report a violation

Facing unpaid wages, unsafe conditions, or harassment? Message us — we can guide you to the right authority. You can stay anonymous.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Verify current figures with the Kerala Labour Department.