New Delhi According to Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of “Technology for Empowerment, Not Exclusion” is in line with India’s human-centric approach to technology development, particularly AI.

India’s National Strategy for AI, which emphasizes ethical adoption, workforce upskilling, and sectoral applications in agriculture, healthcare, and education, was highlighted by Karandlaje, who led the Indian delegation at the 11th BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting, which was held in Brasília under Brazil’s Presidency.

At the meeting, a declaration was adopted calling on the BRICS countries to support inclusive AI policies that strike a balance between worker protection and innovation, to advance social dialogue to ensure equitable climate transitions, and to fortify South-South collaboration on digital inclusion, labor governance, and the creation of green jobs.

According to a Ministry of Labour and Employment release, the conference ended with the adoption of a forward-looking proclamation that addressed two key themes: “The Impacts of Climate Change on the World of Work and a Just Transition” and “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Future of Work.”

“Programs like ‘FutureSkills’ and ‘Namo Drone Didi’ demonstrate India’s dedication to establishing tech-enabled livelihoods, particularly for rural women and youth,” Karandlaje added.

The AI-powered National Career Service (NCS) platform was presented as an example of how to close skill gaps and link millions of people to job openings.

Regarding climate action, India emphasized its framework for a fair transition, which guarantees that green development results in the creation of jobs that are equitable.

During the discussion, the Sector Skill Council for Green Jobs (SSCGJ) and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) were emphasized as innovative projects that promote sustainable behaviors and skill development.

India’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2070 and its success in reducing GHG emissions between 2020 and 2019 strengthened its position as a climate leader. Additionally emphasized were cooperative initiatives with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to safeguard workers’ rights during this transition.

In keeping with PM Modi’s motto of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” India’s contributions were praised for balancing state-of-the-art technical innovation with comprehensive social welfare.