India’s social protection coverage has doubled from 24.4% in 2021 to 48.8% in 2024, marking a significant expansion in welfare reach, according to the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024-26.
- Dramatic Increase in Coverage: Social security coverage in India has doubled, rising from 24.4% in 2021 to 48.8% in 2024. This significant improvement reflects targeted government efforts to broaden access to various social protection measures.
- Wide-Ranging Government Initiatives: The increase in coverage is largely attributed to initiatives that have expanded access to health insurance, pensions, and employment support. These programs are aimed at ensuring a robust safety net for a large segment of the population.
- Massive Reach: According to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, nearly 920 million people—about 65% of the population—are now covered by at least one form of social protection, whether in cash or in kind, through central government schemes.
- Global Impact: India’s expansion in social protection has contributed to a five-percentage-point increase in global social security coverage, underlining the country’s pivotal role in shaping global welfare outcomes.
- Context of the World Social Protection Report: The 2024–26 edition of World Social Protection Report (WSPR) by the International Labour Organization (ILO) places a special focus on universal social protection for climate action and a just transition, highlighting emerging global trends and the critical importance of resilient welfare systems.
(Source: PIB)
