On Tuesday, India called for a transition to an artificial intelligence-based economy that ensures job protection, social security, and human dignity. Simultaneously, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) insisted on the need for alternative economic models to address poverty, unequal wealth distribution, and the vulnerabilities faced by workers within the market system.
At the inaugural session of the BRICS Trade Union Forum Summit 2026, Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stated that India's approach to global governance is rooted in the philosophy of 'Humanity First.' He emphasized that the benefits of technology-driven growth must reach the workers directly on the production floor.
Mandaviya noted that the transition to a digital, AI-driven economy must remain worker-centric, fair, and protective of human dignity. He added that as technologies transform industries, the focus must shift towards universal social security and digital inclusion. The minister concluded that true progress is achieved only when the benefits of growth directly extend to jobs.
BMS, which organized the summit, stated that the global economic system must guarantee fair labour rights and official protection for workers at all levels. Within the trade union forum, socio-economic structures aimed at ensuring genuine poverty reduction, representative decision-making, and a fairer distribution of welfare will be examined.
The National President of BMS and chairman of the summit, Sunkari Mallesham, stressed that the prosperity of workers is inextricably linked to national and global development. He stated: 'When workers prosper, nations prosper. When nations cooperate, humanity prospers.'
The two-day summit gathered over 46 international delegates and about 70 representatives from Indian trade unions, as well as scholars and labour experts. Delegates from Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa, along with representatives from the International Labour Organization, are participating in the discussions. The summit will focus on four broad areas: universal social security, humane use of technology, future-ready skills, and women's participation in the changing world of work.
Discussions on social security will cover the international portability of benefits for migrant and cross-border workers. Under the technology track, governance frameworks for the responsible and ethical implementation of AI in workplaces will be reviewed. Delegates will also discuss worker reskilling through partnerships between governments, employers, and trade unions, as well as measures to eliminate the gender gap, ensure equal pay, and increase women's participation in new industries.
