India has made remarkable progress in expanding social security coverage, rising from 19% in 2015 to 64.3% in 2025, according to the International Labour Organisation (ILO).  

Key Highlights of the Report

• India’s social protection coverage has grown at an unprecedented pace, marking the fastest expansion globally.  
• Over 94 crore (940 million) Indians now have access to at least one social security benefit.  
• India ranks second in the world in terms of the number of beneficiaries.  

Causes for the boost in Social Security in India

• Government Schemes Expansion: Major schemes like PM-KISAN, PM-SYM, PMJJBY, PMSBY, Atal Pension Yojana, and eShram brought unorganised and informal workers under coverage.
• Formalisation of Economy: GST implementation, digital payments, and labour reforms encouraged formal employment.
  • Formal jobs typically come with social security benefits like PF, ESIC, etc.
• Digital Infrastructure: Platforms like Aadhaar, Jan Dhan Yojana, UMANG, and eShram Portal enabled identification, registration, and delivery of benefits to crores of people.
• Policy Push & Labour Codes: Four new labour codes consolidate 29 laws and mandate social security even for gig/platform workers and unorganised sectors.

What is Social Security?

• Social Security refers to government programs that provide financial support to individuals and families in times of need. 
• Protection Against Life Risks: It offers protection during unemployment, old age, disability, illness, or loss of a breadwinner.
• Government-Funded or Mandated: Funded by the state, employers, or workers, it ensures a safety net for all.
• Examples include pensions, health insurance, maternity benefits, and unemployment aid.
• Promotes Inclusive Growth: It reduces poverty and inequality by ensuring basic income security for vulnerable groups.

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