Respectable Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment and MSME, Shobha Karandlaje has led the Indian delegation at the 114th International Labor Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland on 9th of June, 2026. During the conference India has reaffirmed the its commitment to the inclusive growth, ender equality, social dialogue and workforce welfare.
What Is the International Labour Conference?
The International Labour Conference (ILC) is the highest decision making body of the International Labor Organization (ILO).
It is often referred as the “World Parliament of Labour,” and it brings together the representatives of governments, employers and workers from the member countries.
This conference discusses the global labor standards, employment policies, social protection, workplace rights and the emerging labor market challenges.
The 114th session in the Geneva provides the important platform for international cooperation on labor and employment issues.
India’s Focus Points at the 114th ILC
At the 114th session, India have emphasized,
- Inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
- Gender equality in the workforce.
- Social dialogue among the governments, employers and workers.
- Skill development and workforce readiness.
- Digital transformation in labor and employment services.
- International cooperation for the workers welfare.
India also showcased its achievements in developing digital platforms for employment services, worker registration, and skill matching.
Key Bilateral Meetings Held by India At ILC
Labor Cooperation Between India and Nepal
Alongside with the ILC, Shobha Karandlaje has held the discussions with Nepal’s Labour Minister Ramjee Yadav and both sides have explored opportunities for cooperation in the,
- Skill development
- Labor mobility
- Digital technology sharing
- Worker welfare initiatives
India reiterated that the Nepal remains as a priority partner under its “Neighbourhood First” policy.
India-Angola Partnership
In talks with the Angola’s Minister Teresa Rodrigues Dias, discussions focused on to the,
- Vocational training
- Social protection
- Workforce planning
- Employment services
- Digital governance
India-Mauritius Collaboration
Meeting with the Mauritius Labour Minister Muhammad Reza Casam Uteem, India reaffirmed the its strong commitment to supporting Mauritius in developing digital public infrastructure for labor and employment services.
Mauritius has also appreciated the India’s progress in digital governance and employment-related digital platforms.
Expansion of Global Opportunities for Indian Workers
The Minister has also held discussions with labor ministers from France, the United Kingdom, South Korea, the United States and Canada.
The talks focused on to the,
- Legal migration pathways
- Mutual recognition of the skills
- Demand-driven skilling programs
- Expanding overseas employment opportunities for Indian professionals
These initiatives are also expected to enhance the global mobility for India’s skilled workforce.
About International Labor Organization (ILO)
- The International Labor Organization was established in the year 1919 as part of the Treaty of Versailles after the World War I.
- The founding principle was that lasting peace can only be achieved through social justice.
- In the year 1946, after the dissolution with the League of Nations the ILO became the first specialized agency of the United Nations.
- It was founded on the principle that lasting peace can only be achieved through social justice.
- Its headquarters is located in the Geneva, Switzerland.
- This organization currently has total 187 member states and India is the founding member.
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