India has seen a significant improvement in its social security coverage, which has doubled from 24.4% to 48.8%, as announced by Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs and Sports. Speaking at the post-budget webinar on ‘Investing in People’, Mandaviya emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to skilling and empowering India’s youth, ensuring their talent makes a global impact.
Progress in Social Security Expansion
Drawing from the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) World Social Security Report 2024-26, Mandaviya highlighted the government’s progress in extending social security benefits to a broader workforce. A key milestone is the e-Shram Portal, which now covers over 30.67 crore unorganised workers, and the inclusion of gig workers under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY). This initiative is a testament to the government’s dedicated efforts toward worker welfare. Furthermore, 12 key welfare schemes have been integrated into the e-Shram platform, which is now available in 22 Indian languages.
Healthcare Advancements for Workers
Mandaviya also discussed healthcare initiatives for workers, unveiling the approval of 10 new Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) medical colleges, with an additional 10 on the way. The government’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047 is rooted in the belief that investing in people is not just an economic priority, but a social, moral, and cultural commitment to building an educated, healthy, and empowered society.
Employment Growth and Reduced Unemployment
Mandaviya highlighted the success of employment initiatives, revealing that 17.1 crore jobs were created between 2014 and 2024, with 4.6 crore jobs generated in the past year alone. The unemployment rate has drastically reduced from 6% in 2017-18 to 3.2% in 2023-24, while female workforce participation has increased significantly from 22% to 40.3%. These accomplishments were attributed to the government’s progressive policies focused on economic growth and social security.
Labour Reforms and EPFO Modernization
Labour Secretary Sumita Dawra elaborated on significant labour reforms, including the modernization of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). In the past six and a half years, the EPFO has enrolled over 6.2 crore new members. Other notable reforms include a centralised pension processing system, automated settlement of PF claims, and enhanced IT infrastructure.
Expansion of ESIC Services
Dawra also noted the significant expansion of ESIC services, which have grown from 2.03 crore insured persons in 2014 to 3.72 crore in 2024. The healthcare network under ESIC has expanded with 165 hospitals and 1,590 dispensaries now operating across the country.
Commitment to Inclusive and Sustainable Development
The government’s focus on strengthening social security, increasing employment opportunities, and improving healthcare accessibility signals a transformative shift in workforce welfare. These efforts reinforce India’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward a stronger, more empowered nation.
