Bhubaneswar, May 19: Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo has embarked on an official visit to Bhutan to participate in the ‘South Asia Labor Mobility Conference’ organized by the World Bank.

Scheduled for May 20 and 21 in Thimphu, this international summit aims to address labour migration, policy frameworks, and sustainable solutions for displaced workers.

Singh Deo, who also serves as Odisha’s Minister for Agriculture, Farmers' Empowerment, and Energy, is currently the Chairman of the State Task Force on Migrant Labour Displacement, making his participation highly relevant.

Representing India, he is expected to engage in critical discussions on labour mobility, regional cooperation, and effective strategies to safeguard the rights of migrant workers.

The conference will also examine long-term policy solutions for labour migration issues, particularly focusing on vulnerable sections such as migrant labourers.

With Singh Deo’s leadership, India will contribute insights into establishing stable migration pathways, ensuring legal protections, and addressing economic challenges faced by migrant communities.

Accompanying Singh Deo is Chief Secretary of Labour and Employees' State Insurance, Chitra Arumugam, further strengthening India's delegation.

The conference will reportedly see over 100 representatives from Bhutan, Middle Eastern nations, North Africa, Italy, Australia, the Arab world, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Jamaica, Bangladesh, and high-ranking officials from the World Bank and various government bodies.

Singh Deo’s participation signals India’s commitment to international collaboration on labour mobility and policy reform, aligning with global efforts to create fair and secure opportunities for workers across borders.

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