India’s Social Safety Net Surges to 1 Billion Individuals as ILO Highlights Global Cooperation Model
Gilbert Hungbo, Director General at the International Labour Organization (ILO), announced a significant milestone regarding India's social protection framework on July 15. The report stated that India's social security system now covers one billion individuals, a feat offering valuable lessons for South-South cooperation. This declaration was made during the 12th BRICS Labour & Employment Minister's Meeting in Hyderabad.The discussions at the Ministerial gathering are centered around four critical areas of national importance. These include advancing the formalization and social security aspects of labour markets. Other focus areas involve enhancing women’s participation, cooperation on skills mapping, and leveraging digital technologies for all workers.
Social Security Coverage Reaches Billion Mark in India
The achievement underscores the scale of governmental efforts toward worker protection. As reported by the ILO, approximately 950 million individuals were encompassed within India's social security net as of the end of 2025. This growing coverage demonstrates a robust commitment to comprehensive labour security across various demographics.Key Schemes Driving Social Security Expansion
India offers its vast social security protections through a wide array of interconnected schemes. These measures are administered by several dedicated government bodies. Coverage includes initiatives run by EPFO, the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM), and PMSVANidhi. Other critical schemes providing social protection include PMJJBY, PMSBY, MGNREGS, and PMAY-G.Diversified Social Protection through Major Government Initiatives
Beyond the dedicated labour schemes, numerous other major government programs contribute significantly to a worker’s social security profile. The Ayushman Bharat scheme and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) provide vital coverage. Coverage is also extended via One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC), PM-KISAN, and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).Digital Transformation Empowers Unorganized Workforce
The integration of digital platforms has been key to broadening social security reach. The Ministry of Labour introduced the e-Shram portal in 2021 for this purpose. This initiative aims to create a centralized national database encompassing unorganised workers, including gig and platform workers. All individuals registered on this portal benefit from the comprehensive coverage offered across the fourteen mentioned schemes.Disclaimer: Due care and diligence have been taken in compiling and presenting news and market-related content. However, errors or omissions may arise despite such efforts.
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