Silver economy, AI reshape global workforce; India signs 28 mobility pacts: Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Tuesday said India has signed 28 Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements (MMPAs), or their equivalents, with 26 countries, while negotiations are underway with several others as New Delhi deepens global cooperation on the movement of skilled professionals.

Speaking at the Human Resource Mobility Forum in New Delhi, Jaishankar said India's approach to international mobility extends well beyond creating overseas employment opportunities and is increasingly becoming a key pillar of the country's foreign policy and international partnerships.

He said the world is witnessing a profound transformation driven by shifting demographic patterns, rapid technological innovation and evolving labour market requirements.

"Technological innovation is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. Artificial intelligence, automation, digitalisation and the green transition are redefining the skills required for tomorrow's economy," Jaishankar said.

The minister stressed that India's mobility partnerships are built on "mutual benefit, shared responsibility and long-term sustainability," enabling countries to address workforce shortages while creating opportunities for Indian talent.

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"India's mission for mobility is not limited to facilitating overseas employment opportunities. We view mobility as a very important pillar of international cooperation," he said.

Highlighting the government's efforts, Jaishankar said India has already signed 28 Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements, or equivalent arrangements, with 26 countries. He added that negotiations with several other nations are currently in progress, reflecting the growing global demand for skilled Indian professionals.

The remarks come at a time when ageing populations in several developed economies, coupled with rapid advances in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, are reshaping global labour markets and increasing the importance of structured migration frameworks.

India has been expanding bilateral mobility agreements to facilitate legal migration, strengthen skill recognition, enhance worker protection and promote talent mobility across sectors, positioning its workforce to meet emerging global demand.