Trade unions in India are strengthening action for gender equality, labour rights and safer workplaces through an ILO-supported training workshop held in Siliguri, North Bengal. The initiative marked the anniversary of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190), and supported the development of the Indian National Trade Union Congress’s National Gender Policy and Action Plan.
Organized by the International Labour Organization in collaboration with the Indian National Trade Union Congress on 22 June 2026, the Gender Equality Training and Consultation Workshop brought together workers and trade union leaders to build knowledge on safe and women-friendly workplaces. The programme focused on labour rights, gender equality and prevention of gender-based discrimination, violence and harassment at work.
The workshop highlighted international labour standards, national legislation and the role of trade unions in protecting workers’ rights. Discussions also focused on the challenges faced by workers in the informal economy, where access to grievance redress mechanisms is often limited because of the nature of employment. The training emphasized that informal workers have the same fundamental rights at work as all other workers.
Participants examined the meaning of workplace violence and harassment and discussed the gaps that prevent workers from accessing effective reporting and redressal systems. The workshop underlined the important role of trade unions in raising awareness, strengthening worker representation and advocating for safer and more inclusive workplaces.
The programme also covered India’s legal framework for addressing workplace sexual harassment, including the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013. This helped participants connect international labour standards with national laws and practical workplace action.
Beyond training, the workshop served as a consultation platform for INTUC’s National Gender Policy and Action Plan. Participants shared experiences, challenges and recommendations on workplace safety, gender equality and women’s leadership. Their inputs will help shape gender-responsive practices within the organization.
The initiative was supported through the ILO’s Promoting Rights and Social Inclusion through Organization and Formalization Phase 2 project, with financial support from the Government of Japan. The project aims to reduce decent work deficits and gender inequalities in India’s informal economy while supporting the transition to formal employment.
