India and ILO Discuss Fair Wages, Gig Workers’ Welfare, and Social Security

India and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) discussed fair wages, gig workers’ welfare, and labor conditions during the 353rd ILO governing body meeting in Geneva. Led by Sumita Dawra, India’s delegation highlighted the country’s labor welfare achievements and reaffirmed its commitment to social justice. India expressed support for the UN’s Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha and emphasized its progress in social security, doubling coverage to 48.8%. Key schemes like EPFO, ESIC, e-Shram, PM Jan Arogya Yojana, and the Public Distribution System (PDS) were recognized for their impact, benefiting millions.

As a major source of migrant workers and the top remittance recipient, India called for better global cooperation on skilled migration pathways and urged the ILO to enhance social protection efforts for migrant workers. Additionally, India backed the ILO’s proposal for the first Tripartite Global Forum on Migration, reinforcing its role in shaping international labor policies.

India and ILO Discuss Fair Wages, Gig Workers’ Welfare, and Social Security

India and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) recently held discussions on key labor-related issues, including ensuring fair wages, improving the welfare of gig and platform workers, and enhancing working conditions across various industries.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment reported that an Indian delegation participated in the 353rd governing body meeting of the ILO, taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from March 10 to March 20. The delegation was led by Sumita Dawra, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. During the meeting, she highlighted India’s efforts and achievements in labor welfare, social justice, and job creation.

India also expressed its support for the upcoming UN-led Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to be held in Doha, Qatar, later this year. The summit aims to strengthen global efforts toward social development as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The ministry highlighted India’s significant progress in expanding social security coverage, which now reaches 48.8% of the population—exceeding the global average increase of 5%. Key government initiatives, such as the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), with 7.37 crore contributors, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), covering 14.4 crore people, and the e-Shram Portal, which has 30.6 crore unorganized workers registered, were praised for their role in strengthening social protection. Additionally, the PM Jan Arogya Yojana benefits 60 crore people, while the Targeted Public Distribution System (PDS) ensures food security for 81.35 crore citizens.

As one of the largest sources of migrant workers and the top recipient of remittances globally, India stressed the importance of global cooperation in establishing better migration pathways based on skills. The country urged the ILO to take stronger measures to secure social security and rights for migrant workers through bilateral labor agreements.

India also supported the ILO’s proposal to convene the first Tripartite Global Forum on Migration under the Global Coalition for Social Justice. This move reflects India’s commitment to playing a key role in shaping international labor policies.

In summary, the discussions between India and the ILO focused on fair wages, gig workers’ well-being, and improved working conditions. India showcased its progress in labor welfare and social security while advocating for greater global cooperation to protect migrant workers and promote social justice. The country’s participation in international forums such as the ILO and the upcoming UN summit highlights its dedication to fostering a fair and inclusive global labor system.

India’s efforts to expand social security coverage and support migrant workers demonstrate its commitment to securing a better future for its workforce. By collaborating with organizations like the ILO, India aims to contribute to global labor standards and policies that benefit workers worldwide.