How Is India Collaborating with ILO to Open Global Job Markets for Youth?

New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) On Tuesday, India formalized a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) aimed at enhancing the 'International Reference Classification of Occupations'. This initiative is set to empower Indian youth by broadening their access to global employment prospects.

The agreement was signed by India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Arindam Bagchi, alongside ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo. Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, attended the signing virtually.

Many nations are grappling with significant skill shortages due to demographic changes and digital advancements. To address these skill gaps, G20 leaders, during India's Presidency in 2023, pledged to establish well-managed, regular, and skills-based migration pathways. They backed the development of the International Reference Classification of Occupations based on skill and qualification standards.

During the event, Mandaviya emphasized that the collaboration between the Indian government and the ILO signifies a mutual commitment to shaping the workforce amidst rapid change. He stated, “The International Reference Classification will improve data comparability and foster mutual skill recognition.”

Highlighting India's continuous movement towards a more formalized economy, the minister spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 12th Independence Day speech, which aims to generate over 35 million jobs in the formal sector within the next two years. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance youth employment and broaden social protection data.

Mandaviya reaffirmed India’s dedication to utilizing digital innovation to boost labor market efficiency and worker welfare. This commitment was notably displayed at the International Labour Conference, where India showcased two key digital initiatives: the National Career Service (NCS) Portal and the e-Shram Portal.

He remarked, “These digital solutions offer tremendous potential for knowledge sharing and adaptation among other member states” and proposed hosting a dedicated session with the ILO to exchange insights on these digital public goods.

The ILO Director General acknowledged the MoU's potential to influence countries globally, commending India's efforts in labor mobility and social protection.

During the event, Secretary of Labour & Employment Vandana Gurnani noted that the MoU lays the groundwork for feasibility studies and pilot projects in key sectors like green, digital, and care. She pointed out that this agreement opens avenues for broader collaboration, benefiting the global workforce.

This MoU represents a pivotal advancement toward widening global employment avenues for Indian youth. It will assist Indian workers in seamlessly integrating into international labor markets, reinforcing India's vision of becoming not only the skill capital of the world but also a reliable source of talent for countries facing workforce challenges, as stated in an official announcement.

The initiative also holds the potential to elevate the global competitiveness of Indian graduates and establish India as an international hub for high-quality, future-ready education and skill development.