India Highlights Labour Reforms and Social Security Measures at BRICS Labour and Employment Ministerial Meeting.
Sochi, Russia:
The Secretary of the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Sumita Dawra, represented India at the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministerial Meeting held in Sochi, Russia, on September 9-10, 2024. This meeting, under the Russian Presidency, saw participation from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new BRICS partners including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE.
Key discussions focused on vocational guidance, skills training, platform employment challenges, and ensuring a safe working environment. India showcased its progressive steps, such as the comprehensive internship scheme, the integration of the National Career Service portal with the Skill India Digital Hub, and the role of Sector Skill Councils in enhancing employability. The Indian delegation also highlighted the Code on Social Security, which formalizes ‘gig’ and ‘platform’ workers, ensuring them social protection.
India presented its initiatives for mitigating occupational hazards and promoting workforce health, including accidental insurance under the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and comprehensive social security measures through the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). The e-Shram platform, aimed at providing social security benefits to informal sector workers, and the expansive Ayushman Bharat healthcare program were also highlighted.
The meeting culminated in the adoption of the BRICS Labour & Employment Ministers’ Declaration, emphasizing the need for lifelong learning strategies, modernized employment services, safe working conditions, and robust social support mechanisms.
