In a significant step towards strengthening global cooperation and promoting responsible business practices, the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE) held a strategic meeting with top leadership of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE). The high-level interaction reflects SCOPE’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of Indian employers, particularly in the public sector, and fostering meaningful international partnerships.
The meeting was led by Mr. K. P. Mahadevaswamy, Chairman, SCOPE and Chairman & Managing Director of NBCC (India) Ltd., and Mr. Atul Sobti, Director General, SCOPE. They engaged in detailed discussions with Mr. Roberto Suárez Santos, Secretary General, IOE, Geneva; Ms. Michiko Miyamoto, Director, ILO South Asia; and Mr. Ravindra Peiris, Senior Specialist, ILO. Senior officials from SCOPE and ILO were also present, adding depth and diversity to the dialogue.
During the deliberations, the participants underscored the need for collaborative efforts to support Indian employers in navigating the fast-evolving world of work. The discussions focused on several strategic priorities including capacity building, micro-credentialing, skill development, and the promotion of just transition — an essential framework for ensuring fairness in shifting to sustainable and green economies.
A major highlight of the meeting was the shared vision for developing greater awareness around Responsible Business Conduct (RBC). It was emphasized that strengthening the knowledge base and operational capacity of public sector employers in this domain is imperative, especially in the context of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) imperatives becoming central to global business standards.
Recognizing SCOPE’s pivotal role as the apex body of Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) in India, both ILO and IOE extended their full cooperation and support. They acknowledged SCOPE’s proactive efforts in promoting sustainable employment practices and pledged to engage more frequently in joint initiatives aimed at employer sensitization and institutional strengthening.
Mr. Mahadevaswamy reiterated SCOPE’s unwavering commitment to international collaboration and capacity enhancement of its members, while Mr. Sobti highlighted that such engagements with global institutions bring invaluable insights for Indian PSEs in aligning with international benchmarks.
This strategic interaction marks the beginning of a broader cooperation framework between SCOPE, ILO, and IOE to foster inclusive growth, ensure decent work for all, and strengthen the role of employers in shaping a sustainable future. Moving forward, the organizations are expected to co-create programs and conduct regular dialogues focused on knowledge sharing, employer education, and policy advocacy.
With this development, SCOPE has once again reaffirmed its position as a forward-looking institution that not only champions the cause of Indian public enterprises but also ensures their active participation in global policy discourses.