Labour ministry hikes variable dearness allowance for workers in central sphere SECTIONS Share Synopsis The rates fixed for scheduled employment in the central sphere are applicable to the establishments under the authority of the central government, Railway administration, mines, oil fields, major ports or any corporation established by the central government and are equally applicable to contract and casual employees or workers. ET Bureau In a move aimed at benefiting 1.50 crore central sector employees, the labour ministry on Friday marginally increased the minimum wage of industrial workers employed in the central sphere including in mining and construction activities by revising the variable dearness allowance (VDA). This would lead to Rs 105 to Rs 212 per month increase in wages for workers doing scheduled employment in the central sphere.