Team siliconindia

• India signs MoU with ILO to develop global job classification system.
• The initiative aims to help Indian youth access international employment.
• Focus on job opportunities in green, digital, and care sectors.

In a move to expand global job opportunities for Indian youth, the Government of India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to develop the International Reference Classification of Occupations (IRCO).

This partnership is designed to bridge global skill gaps and create pathways for skills based international recruitment, especially in fast growing sectors like green jobs, digital technologies, and care work. The classification system will help align India’s workforce with international standards, making it easier for employers and countries abroad to recognize Indian skills and qualifications.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who oversees both Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, virtually attended the MoU signing. He highlighted that the agreement reflects a shared vision between India and the ILO to shape the future of work in a fast changing world.

Mandaviya stressed that this classification system will improve data comparability, enhance skill recognition across borders, and ultimately open more global job opportunities for Indian talent. He also noted that India is making steady progress in formalizing its workforce and this move further supports that shift.

ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo said the MoU would not only benefit India but also have a positive global impact, especially for countries facing labour shortages due to demographic and technological changes.

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Labour Secretary, Vandana Gurnani explained that the agreement includes a feasibility study and pilot project in critical areas like green, care, and digital sectors. She added that this MoU lays the groundwork for broader international collaboration in future workforce planning.

With this step, India is aiming to position its young population as a ready and skilled workforce for the global job market.