The Union Minister of Labour & Employment announced that India's social protection systems now cover over 68% of the population (19% in 2015), recognised by International Labour Organization (ILO).
Significance of higher social security coverage
- Constitutional goal of a welfare state: Wider access to pensions, health protection, insurance and livelihood support reduces vulnerability of socially and economically disadvantaged sections.
- Cushions low-income and unorganized households from sudden health crises or job losses, thus leading to economic stability and poverty reduction.
- Formalisation of the work-force: Expanded coverage supports workers in the organised, unorganised, gig and platform sectors.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Strengthens India's progress towards SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health), SDG 8 (Decent Work) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Key initiatives taken in India
- Digital Public Infrastructure: Integration of Aadhaar, DBT and digital labour platforms has improved identification, portability, and efficient benefit delivery.
- e-Shram Portal: National database for unorganised workers, facilitating targeted delivery of social security benefits.
- Labour Codes: Aim to universalise social security and simplify labour compliance.
- PM Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): Health insurance coverage for vulnerable families.
- Atal Pension Yojana (APY): Guaranteed pension for workers in the unorganised sector.
- Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM): Voluntary contributory pension scheme for unorganised workers.
