New Delhi: India and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations agency for migration, have discussed strengthening cooperation on migration and labour mobility, with a focus on ethical recruitment, skills recognition and safer employment opportunities for Indian workers abroad.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh met IOM Director General Amy Pope during her visit to India on Friday. Their discussions covered ongoing initiatives to deepen cooperation on migration and mobility.
Earlier, MEA Secretary for Consular, Passport and Visa, and Overseas Indian Affairs, Sripriya Ranganathan, also met Pope in New Delhi to discuss global migration trends and emerging opportunities for India.
Pope had separately held talks with Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje on Thursday. The discussions focused on recognising professional skills, promoting ethical recruitment and expanding regular labour migration channels while safeguarding workers’ interests.
The engagement comes amid growing attention to transparent recruitment procedures and reliable information for people seeking overseas employment. Clearer pathways and recognition of qualifications can help workers access legitimate jobs and make informed decisions about working abroad.
During her India visit, Pope also met workers in Chennai who receive support through IOM’s Mobile Worker Resource Centres. These centres provide information and assistance to workers in their communities and workplaces.
India and IOM have previously discussed expanding regular migration pathways and implementing the Global Compact for Migration. The latest meetings build on these efforts, although no new agreement or specific additional initiative was announced.
The discussions highlight the shared focus on promoting orderly migration, protecting workers’ rights and improving access to safe and transparent international employment opportunities.
