India Signs MoU with ILO to Boost Global Recognition of Skills and Occupations

In a landmark development for the Indian workforce, India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to support the creation of the International Reference Classification of Occupations (IRCO). This collaboration aims to enhance global comparability of skills, streamline job matching across borders, and boost international employment opportunities for Indian workers.

The agreement was formalized in Geneva on September 16, 2025, with the signing by Ambassador Arindam Bagchi of the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations and ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, joined the event virtually.

Why This MoU Matters

The MoU represents a strategic step in global labour mobility, enabling Indian workers to find better recognition for their skills in international markets. As the world economy becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for standardized occupational classifications has grown more urgent. This collaboration places India at the heart of this transformation.

According to Dr. Mandaviya, the partnership showcases a “shared commitment to shaping the future of work” in a rapidly changing global environment. The IRCO will improve data comparability, facilitate mutual recognition of skills, and help Indian workers integrate more seamlessly into global labour systems.

A Boost for Domestic Reforms and Job Creation

Dr. Mandaviya also highlighted how the MoU aligns with India’s domestic employment initiatives, notably the recently announced Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, which aims to generate over 3.5 crore formal jobs within two years. He emphasized that digital innovation is central to this vision.

India’s flagship platforms, including the National Career Service (NCS) Portal and the e-Shram Portal, are playing a crucial role in digitizing labour data and job opportunities. These platforms have become digital public goods, and Dr. Mandaviya proposed a special session between India and ILO to share best practices and technological insights with other member states.

ILO’s Support and Global Implications

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo welcomed India’s active participation and noted that this collaboration could have far-reaching benefits for other countries aiming to improve skill mobility and labour protection systems. He recognized India’s efforts in promoting labour mobility and social protection through technology and policy innovation.

Further detailing the scope of the MoU, Secretary of Labour & Employment Ms. Vandana Gurnani stated that it opens the door for feasibility studies and pilot projects in emerging sectors such as the green economy, digital technologies, and care work. These initiatives could eventually evolve into formal frameworks for international cooperation and job standardization.

Key Takeaways

• India signed an MoU with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on September 16, 2025, to help develop the International Reference Classification of Occupations (IRCO).
• The initiative aims to enhance global comparability of skills, making it easier for Indian workers to access international job markets.