A National policy framework on TB-HIV in the world of work with strong linkages with social protection, especially health care, was developed
Outcome achieved
A National policy framework on TB-HIV in the world of work with strong linkages with social protection, especially health care, was developed by Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE) in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and social partners in 2019. The new framework aims to improve institutional policies and responses to TB and HIV in India.
MOLE disseminated the policy framework to all the central ministries, state labour departments, employers and workers organizations by MoLE, for mainstreaming TB-HIV initiatives and coordinating with MoHFW for implementation of activities in April 2019. The MoHFW launched the new policy framework on 25 September 2019.
The framework has given a boost to the advocacy and mainstreaming efforts of the Central TB division for reaching the target given by the Prime Minister of India for elimination of TB by 2025.
ILO's contribution to the outcome
- The ILO facilitated the national tripartite consultation on the draft policy framework throughout 2017 and 2018.
- The ILO provided technical support for the revision and finalization of the draft.
-
- ILO facilitated meetings/discussions between MOLE and MoHFW on the need for an integrated response to TB-HIV in the world of work in India
- ILO provided technical inputs to the MOLE-led national steering committee on HIV in the world of work for including TB in its agenda during 2017 and 2018. This resulted in inclusion of the Central TB Division, Ministry of Health in the steering committee.
- Preparation and dissemination of good practices documents and advocacy with social partners on the need for an integrated policy framework for TB-HIV in the world of work
Gender equality & non-discrimination
The policy framework on TB-HIV in the world of work gives an opportunity for engagement and discussions for developing strategies for reaching the unreached sections of the informal and unorganized workers, in particular women workers. The focus on gender dimension and impact of TB on women and their access to health services, nutrition support under CTD and working conditions has been missing. Support to the policy framework provides avenue for developing an integrated approach and prioritizing access and outreach to women workers.
International Labour Standard
The CPO is guided by C102 and R202. The policy framework takes into account the elements of the ILO Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS in the world of work and its implementation through the MOLE-led national policy on HIV/AIDS in India. The national policy framework on HIV-TB in the world of work emphasises the importance of a multi-sectoral approach and prioritizing workers health and social protection for improving productivity.
Social dialogue
The development of a national policy framework on TB-HIV was done through tripartite consultations and led to also the strengthening of the national steering committee on HIV in the world of work, which has representation from the social partners. The committee decided to expand the scope of its discussion to include TB in the world of work