Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday virtually attended the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of India and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to collaborate on the development of an “International Reference Classification of Occupations.”

The MoU was signed in Geneva by Shri Arindam Bagchi, India’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, and ILO Director General Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo. The agreement aims to expand global employment opportunities for Indian youth and strengthen skills-based migration pathways.

Dr. Mandaviya said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to shaping the future of work amid rapid global transformation. The International Reference Classification, he added, will improve data comparability and promote mutual recognition of skills. He also highlighted India’s focus on formalising its economy, citing the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, which targets the creation of over 35 million formal-sector jobs in the next two years.

The Minister underscored India’s progress in leveraging digital innovation to improve labour market efficiency and welfare. He pointed to India’s National Career Service and e-Shram portals—showcased at the recent International Labour Conference—as digital public goods that can be adopted by other countries.

ILO Director General Houngbo praised India’s efforts on labour mobility and social protection, noting the MoU’s far-reaching potential for countries worldwide. Secretary (Labour & Employment) Ms. Vandana Gurnani added that the agreement provides a framework for a feasibility study and pilot exercises in green, digital and care sectors, paving the way for future collaborations.

The MoU represents a key step in positioning India as a global skills hub and trusted talent source for countries facing workforce shortages, while enhancing the competitiveness and employability of Indian graduates worldwide.