India hosts regional dialogue on social justice with global experts
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The Ministry of Labour and Employment, along with the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), hosted a two-day Regional Dialogue on Social Justice in collaboration with the Global Coalition for Social Justice and the International Labour Organization (ILO). The event, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from February 24-25, brought together over 500 representatives from governments, industry bodies, international organizations, and academia to discuss key social justice issues.
Inauguration and key publications launched
Union Minister of Labour, Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated the event. He was joined by ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo, Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, and Labour and Employment Secretary, Sumita Dawra. During the opening session, key publications were launched, including reports on Responsible Business Conduct, Transforming India’s Social Protection Landscape, Compendium of Social Protection in India, and Shram Samarth.
ESIC’s 74th foundation day and special services fortnight
The event coincided with ESIC’s 74th foundation day, marking seven decades of service to workers and their families. A special initiative, the ESIC Special Services Fortnight, was announced to enhance worker welfare. Running from February 24 to March 10, 2025, the program will feature activities such as seminars, health talks, awareness camps, hygiene education, and health check-ups across ESIC field offices, hospitals, and medical institutions.
Global perspectives and key discussions
International experts from organizations like ILO, United Nations India, UNICEF, UN Women, and UNESCAP contributed insights on advancing social justice in the region. Representatives from Australia, Japan, Namibia, the Philippines, Germany, and Brazil shared their experiences in promoting social protection and decent work. Discussions centered on expanding social security for informal workers, responsible business practices, ensuring living wages in global supply chains, and the role of AI in creating equitable work environments.
India’s commitment to labour reforms
The Ministry of Labour and Employment presented key initiatives, including the National Career Service (NCS), e-Shram, and occupational safety and health (OSH) reforms. Sumita Dawra emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry and workers’ organizations in fostering sustainable business models, quality employment, and social justice. She reiterated India’s leadership role in global labour policies, highlighting its work with the ILO and OECD in developing an International Reference Classification of Skills and Occupations under the G20 framework.
Recognizing India’s leadership in social justice
Sana De Courcelles, Director of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, commended India’s proactive role in the coalition. She lauded the country’s efforts in job creation, expanding social security, and promoting responsible business conduct.
Digital engagement and policy showcase
Interactive digital kiosks showcased landmark initiative* of the Ministry, including e-Shram, the NCS portal, Gig and Platform Worker initiatives, ELI Schemes, EPFO, and ESIC. These kiosks highlighted India’s commitment to using technology for social security access and transparency.
Call for continued dialogue
The seminar concluded with Joint Secretary, Labour and Employment, Rupesh Kumar Thakur, emphasizing the need for ongoing multi-stakeholder collaboration to advance social justice globally. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to leading the conversation and implementing concrete actions for inclusive growth and workers’ well-being.
