India signed an MoU with ILO to align occupational classifications

The Government of India and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) have come together to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at developing the International Reference Classification of Occupations. This partnership is all about boosting global job opportunities for young people. It tackles the skill shortages that have arisen due to demographic shifts and the ongoing digital transformation around the world. Plus, this MoU is in line with the G20’s commitment to establish well-managed, skills-based migration pathways.

Key highlights:

• A MoU was signed between India and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to align India’s occupational classification with international standards.
• The MoU was signed in Geneva by Ambassador Arindam Bagchi and ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo.
• The International Reference Classification of Occupations (IRCO), developed by the ILO, was agreed to be adopted by India.
• The classification system was designed to help Indian workers compete globally by aligning job data with international frameworks.
• It was stated by Mandaviya that the initiative would enhance recognition of Indian skills abroad.
• The Labour Minister highlighted India’s National Career Service Portal and e-Shram Portal as digital tools useful for global employability.
• The agreement was described as a step toward improving labour mobility, migration management, and vocational training.
• Mandaviya also showcased two major Indian digital labor platforms—the National Career Service (NCS) portal and the e-Shram portal—which were recently presented at the ILO.