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Context:
India’s social protection coverage has doubled from 24.4% in 2021 to 49% in 2024. The International Labour Organization (ILO) expanded its assessment, now recognizing 34 major central schemes (earlier only 7 were considered). India believes ILO’s 48.8% estimate is still an underestimation, as it does not include in-kind benefits or state-level programs.
Key Welfare Schemes Considered
- Employment & Pension: MGNREGA, Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
- Worker Benefits: Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
- Social Security & Welfare: Midday Meal Scheme, Public Distribution System (PDS), Housing Schemes
Data Collection & Expansion Plan
- 10 states (UP, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, MP, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Gujarat) have been asked to submit data.
- The exercise will expand to all states and union territories for a more accurate assessment.
India’s Perspective on ILO’s Report
- India advocates for broader social protection indicators, including housing and food security under the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Aadhaar-based encrypted tracking is expected to show two-thirds of India’s population has some form of social security.
India’s welfare reach has grown significantly, yet the full extent may not be reflected in global assessments. Government efforts continue to enhance data accuracy and ensure holistic welfare tracking. ILO and India are working together to refine the methodology for a more comprehensive social security evaluation.