URMU leader explores global labour best practices and SDG initiatives in Japan as part of CII delegation.
New Delhi [India], July 18: Ramneek Sharma, Division Secretary of the Uttar Railway Mazdoor Union (URMU), Delhi Division, recently visited Japan as part of a high-level delegation organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). During this significant visit, he toured the United Nations University (UNU) in Tokyo and observed various research and policy programs based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also held an important meeting with the Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) at its Japan office, where they discussed global labour policies, social security, and the challenges faced by Indian railway workers.
The primary objective of the visit was to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences between India and Japan in the field of labour and industrial relations, explore best practices, and bring the voices of Indian workers to the global stage.
Mr. Sharma shared, “At the United Nations University, I witnessed a powerful synergy between research, education, and policy-making. It offers an exemplary model that can be adopted by Indian policymakers and labour unions alike.”
He added that the meeting with the ILO Director was extremely fruitful. “We discussed the conditions of millions of Indian railway workers, their need for social security, and skill development in the face of rapid technological changes. The ILO appreciated the proactive role of trade unions in India and expressed its willingness to enhance cooperation in this area,” said Mr. Sharma.
The CII delegation included representatives from various industrial, social, and labour sectors across India. The visit also included meaningful interactions with several Japanese institutions and companies, focusing on themes like workers’ rights, social welfare, and technological advancement.
Mr. Ramneek Sharma stated, “This visit has been not only personally enriching but also strategically valuable for the Uttar Railway Mazdoor Union (URMU) and Indian railway workers. The labour-friendly structures and policies implemented in Japan are inspiring. We should strive to adopt and adapt such models in the Indian context.”
He further remarked that in large, labour-intensive institutions like Indian Railways, the implementation of technological change must be balanced with a socially responsible approach. “Our dialogue with institutions like the UN and ILO reinforced the idea that policies are far more impactful and inclusive when workers are actively involved in the decision-making process,” Mr. Sharma emphasized.
The outcomes of this visit were well received within both the Uttar Railway Mazdoor Union (URMU). There is optimism that such international exposure will broaden the vision of Indian labour organizations and strengthen their global engagement.
In conclusion, Mr. Sharma recommended that Indian Railways and labour unions jointly institutionalize such international study tours and training programs to provide broader global exposure and leadership opportunities for union representatives.
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