schedule E so that all occupations would be included in the list contained in that schedule and their skill content can be classi ed appropriately. Because the current framing of schedule E also leaves room for clarity on whether domestic workers and those in childcare occupation, predominantly women, are covered or not. So, that would require clari cation by reviewing the occupations that are in the schedule E list. The third suggestion of the ILO on this is to also ensure that there is adequate representation of these workers in the advisory boards both at the central and state levels. It is really important that people who understand their concerns, problems and perspective engage in those discussions, otherwise the decisions taken might overlook what they may need. NMS: Trade unions in India have been protesting against the wide discretionary powers conferred on the central and state governments for diluting labour laws. The codes weaken the enforcement mechanism by narrowing down the scope of labour inspections. For instance, the OSHW code does not provide for the power of inspectors as per ILO conventions such as free entry of inspectors at any time without prior notice and as frequently as possible to ensure enforcement of labour laws. From a labour legislation perspective, how do you look at such provisions? CV: This is again an area of concern for the ILO and its supervisory bodies. Concerning labour inspection, in particular, it is really interesting to see that already last year the ILO committee of experts— which is one of the independent bodies reviewing compliance of member states with their international obligations, a group of 20 experts which includes renowned Indian members—issued a general observation on the importance of labour inspection. They felt that it is critical for the member states to be reminded of the central role labour inspectors pay in ensuring that there is compliance with and enforcement of national labour legislation. They have already expressed concerns about decisions taken by a number of member