An agreement was signed today between the Government of India and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to develop an “International Reference Occupational Classification.” The agreement was signed by Arindam Bagchi, Ambassador of India to Geneva, Switzerland, and Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO. Union Minister of Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, participated in the event via video conferencing.
The objective of this agreement is to provide global employment opportunities to youth and seamlessly integrate Indian workers into the international labor market. Many countries today face a shortage of skilled workers due to demographic imbalances and digitalization. During India’s G20 presidency in 2023, leaders agreed to promote regular skills-based migration pathways to address this problem. In this context, a decision was made to develop an international occupation classification.
Addressing the event, Dr. Mandaviya said that the partnership between India and the ILO reflects a shared commitment to shaping the future of work in rapidly changing times. He explained that this classification will facilitate data comparison and promote mutual recognition of skills. He referred to the Pradhan Mantri Vikas Bharat Rojgar Yojana (PM-VY) announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Independence Day, saying it aims to create 35 million jobs in the formal sector over the next two years. This will increase employment opportunities for youth and expand social security coverage.
Mandaviya also stated that India is using digital innovation to enhance labor market efficiency and worker welfare. At the recent International Labor Conference, India presented two digital public goods: the National Career Service (NCS) portal and the e-Shram portal, which will provide opportunities for other countries to learn from and adopt. He also proposed convening a special session on these digital initiatives in collaboration with the ILO.
At the same time, ILO Director General Hongbo said that this agreement will have far-reaching effects for many countries of the world. He praised India’s good initiatives in the field of labor mobility and social security. On this occasion, Labor and Employment Secretary Vandana Gurnani said that this agreement provides a framework for feasibility studies and pilot exercises in important areas such as green, digital and care sectors. This will open up opportunities for extensive cooperation in the future, which will benefit the global workforce.
