AI Reshaping Jobs: Minister Mandaviya Calls for Stronger Industry-Worker Ties
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya calls for stronger industry-worker ties as AI and digital tech reshape the Indian labour landscape.
Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has emphasized the urgent need for enhanced dialogue between industries and workers. Speaking at the CII-EFI National Conference on Industrial Relations and Labour Awards in New Delhi, the Minister highlighted that the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, digital technology, and evolving work patterns are fundamentally transforming the nation's labour landscape.
Adapting to the Era of Artificial Intelligence
Addressing the inevitable shift brought about by technological advancements, Mandaviya noted that AI presents a dual reality of both significant challenges and immense opportunities. He stressed that the workforce must embrace these changes rather than resist them.
"We will not be able to stop time now. Time will keep doing its work. We will have to get along with time,"
The Minister remarked that success in this new era will belong to those who can adapt to changing circumstances and successfully convert technological shifts into opportunities for growth.
Clarity and Consultation on Labour Codes
As India prepares for structural shifts, Mandaviya highlighted the importance of the four labour codes. He advocated for a collaborative approach to ensure smooth implementation, suggesting that clarity is essential for all involved parties.
Key points regarding the implementation of labour frameworks include:
- Stakeholder Engagement: Industries, workers, trade unions, and the government must all act as partners in India's development.
- Collaborative Problem Solving: Government teams should actively engage with industry leaders, lawyers, and chartered accountants to resolve complex questions regarding the labour codes.
- Evolving Rules: Labour regulations must evolve to reflect modern realities, including advancements in manufacturing, the IT sector, digital technologies, and the rise of work-from-home arrangements.
Balancing Industrial Growth with Worker Welfare
Mandaviya rejected the idea that the interests of industry and labour are inherently at odds. Instead, he proposed a model of sustainable development where industrial progress and worker welfare move forward in tandem.
"We want to move the industries forward. And we want to sustain the welfare of the workers," he stated, underlining that India's economic trajectory must be supported by robust employment generation.
Economic Growth and the Path to 2047
The Minister shared insights into India's economic performance, noting that the country's 7.8 per cent economic growth is a result of broad policy efforts. He pointed out a significant trend in employment dynamics, stating that employment generation has risen to 1.118 per cent for every 1 per cent of economic growth, a substantial increase from the previous 0.08 per cent.
To support demand, manufacturing, and employment, Mandaviya emphasized the necessity of increasing the purchasing power of the citizenry. He concluded by stating that achieving the national goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 will require the collective participation of industrialists, workers, and the government alike.