India Champions Labour Rights at ILO Meeting
The 353rd Governing Body meeting of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is currently underway in Geneva, Switzerland, from March 10 to March 20, 2025. This significant gathering unites representatives from governments, workers, and employers to address pressing issues related to global labor governance. The Indian delegation, led by Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, is actively participating, presenting India’s achievements and perspectives on labor welfare and social justice.
Support for Global Social Development Initiatives
During the meeting, India expressed its support for the upcoming UN-led Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to take place in Doha, Qatar, later this year. This summit aims to strengthen the social dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. India highlighted its remarkable progress in social justice, noting that it has doubled its social protection coverage to 48.8%, surpassing the global average by over 5%. Key initiatives such as the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), which serves 7.37 crore contributing members, and the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), benefiting 14.4 crore individuals, were acknowledged as vital components of this success.
Additionally, the e-Shram Portal, which has registered 30.6 crore unorganized workers, and the PM Jan Arogya Yojana, providing health coverage to 60 crore beneficiaries, were highlighted as significant steps towards enhancing social welfare. The Targeted Public Distribution System (PDS) also plays a crucial role, ensuring food security for 81.35 crore individuals. These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to improving labor welfare and social justice on a global scale.
Advocacy for Migrant Workers’ Rights
India, being one of the largest sources of migrant workers and a leading recipient of remittances, reiterated its commitment to fostering well-managed migration pathways. The Indian delegation urged the ILO to enhance global cooperation in securing social protection and rights for migrant workers through bilateral labor migration agreements. India expressed its support for the ILO’s proposal to convene the first Tripartite Global Forum on Migration, emphasizing its role as a key partner in the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
The discussions highlighted the importance of creating a framework that ensures the rights of migrant workers are upheld. India’s proactive stance aims to generate momentum for better labor conditions and social security for these workers, reflecting the nation’s dedication to addressing the challenges faced by migrants globally.
Commitment to Chemical Safety and Worker Welfare
India reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring a safe environment free from harmful chemicals and waste. The Indian delegation acknowledged the ILO’s initiatives following the Bonn Declaration, which aims to protect workers and communities from chemical hazards. Key legislative measures, including the Factories Act of 1948 and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code of 2020, were highlighted as critical steps towards safeguarding worker health and safety.
Moreover, India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 Action Plan includes capacity-building measures aimed at enhancing workplace safety, particularly in Major Accident Hazardous (MAH) units. These initiatives demonstrate India’s proactive approach to creating a safer working environment and promoting sustainable practices in labor sectors.
Bilateral Engagements and Future Collaborations
Ms. Sumita Dawra engaged in bilateral discussions with ILO Director-General Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, commending him for the Global Coalition for Social Justice. She emphasized the need for the ILO to consider in-kind benefits when assessing social protection coverage. This is particularly relevant as India embarks on a State-Specific Data Pooling exercise in collaboration with the ILO to obtain a more accurate assessment of its social protection landscape.
Mr. Houngbo praised India’s leadership role in the Global Coalition, particularly its initiative on “Responsible Business for Sustainable and Inclusive Societies.” He invited India to actively participate in the upcoming Annual Forum on Social Justice, showcasing best practices in responsible business conduct and the payment of living wages. The discussions also included future collaborations on living wages, gig economy worker welfare, and ensuring decent work across value chains, highlighting India’s commitment to advancing labor rights and social justice on a global platform.
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