India-Russia Labour Mobility Agreement: Opportunities and Concerns

In December 2025, during a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to India, a significant labour mobility agreement was signed between India and Russia. This deal aims to facilitate the movement of Indian workers to Russia, addressing the labour shortages in the latter while providing economic opportunities for India's surplus workforce. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that this partnership could enhance economic and technological collaboration between the two nations.

The Straits TimesIndia-Russia ‘win-win’ labour deal sparks concerns over migrant workers’ rights and safety

India's large working-age population positions it strategically to leverage its workforce globally. In 2024, remittances from Indian workers abroad reached approximately US$135 billion, underscoring the economic importance of overseas employment. Many Indian workers, like 37-year-old Mr. Shah, express a willingness to take risks for better job prospects, despite concerns about safety and rights in foreign countries. Mr. Shah, who previously worked in Dubai, is eager to seize opportunities in Russia, reflecting a broader sentiment among job seekers facing stagnant incomes and uneven economic growth in India.

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To enhance the safety and rights of Indian workers abroad, the Indian government is working on the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025. This proposed legislation aims to establish an Overseas Mobility and Welfare Council to oversee worker policies and ensure adherence to international agreements on migration. Dr. Karthik Nachiappan from the Institute of South Asian Studies highlights the importance of these agreements in setting minimum standards for wages and working conditions.

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Despite these legislative efforts, significant risks remain for Indian workers, particularly in Russia. Reports indicate that some Indian nationals have been misled into joining military efforts in Ukraine, with at least 202 individuals reportedly recruited under false pretenses. The families of these workers have raised concerns about the lack of effective labour protection laws in Russia, which could lead to further exploitation. Dr. Bhavna Dave from the University of London notes that the responsibility for rescuing duped migrants often falls on diplomatic missions, highlighting the inadequacies in safeguarding workers.

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The vulnerabilities of Indian migrant workers extend beyond Russia. Instances of skills mismatches have been reported in other countries, such as Israel, where workers have found themselves in roles unrelated to their qualifications. Migration experts advocate for stricter oversight and regular updates to labour agreements to reflect changing ground realities. Professor S. Irudaya Rajan emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring of worker conditions to ensure their welfare.

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While the India-Russia labour mobility agreement presents potential economic benefits, it also raises critical concerns regarding the rights and safety of migrant workers. As India seeks to enhance its global workforce presence, the implementation of protective measures and ongoing evaluation of worker experiences will be essential to ensure that the agreement serves as a truly beneficial arrangement for all parties involved.

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• “For work and supporting my family, I am ready to go to Russia,” — Mr. Shah, Indian Worker

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• “It’s an important way to leverage India’s massive youth population into a strategic asset while protecting their rights and welfare abroad,” — Dr. Karthik Nachiappan, Research Fellow

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• “There are no effective labour protection laws in Russia.” — Dr. Bhavna Dave, Senior Lecturer

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• “We have to find out how workers are faring. It is a dynamic agreement. You need to follow up.” — Professor S. Irudaya Rajan, Chair of the International Institute of Migration and Development

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