On 16 September 2025, the Government of India and the International Labour Organization (ILO) signed an agreement to fund a feasibility study on an international classification of occupations based on skill and qualification requirements. Supported by a €650,000 contribution from India, this initiative marks the country’s first direct funding agreement with the ILO and reflects its growing leadership in multilateral cooperation. The study, running from September 2025 to September 2027, aims to create a standardized taxonomy to improve comparability of job roles and qualifications across countries, informing policies on recruitment, migration, education, and career guidance, especially in the green, digital, and care sectors.
India’s commitment builds on its G20 presidency in 2023, where member states emphasized the need for greater cross-border comparability of skills. The country’s leadership in South-South cooperation and active engagement in platforms such as BRICS and IBSA positions it as a key influencer in shaping inclusive and sustainable labour policies. ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo highlighted that India’s initiative will facilitate meaningful peer learning among G20 members on skills taxonomy and labour standards.
Early OECD findings reveal significant disparities in job descriptions across nations, underscoring the importance of this collaboration. The study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 8, emphasizing quality education and decent work. It will leverage advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and big data, to analyze and harmonize existing occupational taxonomies.
Looking ahead, India’s BRICS presidency in 2026 is expected to further strengthen its role in global labour policy. The partnership between India and the ILO sends a clear message about the value of international collaboration in building a future of work that is equitable, adaptable, and inclusive.
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