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NEW DELHI: India on Tuesday called for an artificial intelligence-driven economic transition that protects jobs, social security and human dignity, while Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) pressed for alternative economic models to tackle poverty, unequal wealth distribution and vulnerabilities faced by workers under the free-market system.At the inaugural session of the BRICS Trade Union Forum Summit 2026, labour minister Mansukh Mandaviya said India’s approach to global governance was rooted in its “Humanity First” philosophy and stressed that the gains from technology-led growth must reach workers on the shop floor.“The transition into a digital, AI-driven economy must remain worker-centric, equitable and protective of human dignity,” Mandaviya said. As technology reshapes industries, he added, the focus must shift towards universal social protection and digital inclusion.“True progress is achieved only when the benefits of growth extend directly to the shop floor,” the minister said.BMS, which organised the summit, said the global economic order must provide equitable labour rights and formal protection to workers at the last mile. The trade union forum will examine socioeconomic frameworks aimed at ensuring genuine poverty alleviation, representative decision-making and fairer distribution of wealth. BMS national president and summit chairperson Sunkari Mallesham said the prosperity of workers was inseparable from national and global progress. “When workers prosper, nations prosper. When nations cooperate, humanity prospers,” he said.The two-day summit has brought together over 46 international delegates and around 70 representatives of Indian trade unions, besides academics and labour experts. Delegates from Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa, as well as representatives of the International Labour Organization, are participating in the deliberations.The summit will focus on four broad areas — universal social security, human-centric use of technology, future-ready skills and women’s participation in the changing world of work.Discussions on social security will examine the international portability of benefits for migrant and cross-border workers. The technology track will consider governance frameworks for the responsible and ethical adoption of AI at workplaces.Delegates will also discuss reskilling workers through partnerships among governments, employers and trade unions, besides measures to close gender gaps, ensure equal wages and increase women’s participation in emerging industries.
