According to ILO’s World Social Protection Report 2024-26, proportion of India’s population covered by at least one social protection benefit (excluding health) increased from 24%(2021) to 49%( 2024).
- Social protection provides benefits to people on basis of risks faced across life cycle (e.g., unemployment, disability etc.) and to those suffering general poverty and social exclusion.
Significance of Social Protection
- Inclusive Society: Providing security for children, women, old age and divyang.
- Tackling Climate Adaptation: Can tackle poverty, inequality and social exclusion.
- Others: Transition to greener jobs, Sustainable economic practices etc.
Challenges regarding Social Protection in India
- Social protection coverage: Lack of comprehensive protection for informal workers.
- Only 26% of Indian women are covered by at least one social protection measure, compared to 39% for men
- Inadequate Financing: India spends only 5% of GDP on social protection (excluding healthcare) lower than global average of 13%.
- Automation: AI could potentially disrupt around 12 million jobs in India by 2030(McKinsey).
Way Forward
- Strengthening Social Protection: Expanding unemployment insurance and pension schemes to cover its informal workforce.
- Addressing Gender disparities: Expanding maternity benefits and ensuring access to pension schemes.
- Improving data collection, monitoring to reach more beneficiaries and reskilling in age of AI
Initiatives Taken for Social Protection:
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