ILO: 100 crore Indians covered under social security by 2026
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) Director General announced that India's social protection system now covers 100 crore people, over two-thirds of the population. This milestone was highlighted at the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting, showcasing India's progress in social welfare.
Background
India's social protection coverage has expanded significantly from 25 crore citizens (19%) in 2015 to over 100 crore citizens (68.4%) in 2026, reflecting the government's commitment to inclusive development.
Key facts
ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo announced that India's social protection system reaches 100 crore people.
Coverage increased from 25 crore (19%) in 2015 to over 100 crore (68.4%) in 2026.
ILO criteria for social security schemes: legislatively backed, in cash, active, with verified time-series data for the last three years.
The announcement was made at the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting.
Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya attributed the expansion to the government's 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' approach.
The milestone offers lessons for south-south cooperation.
Prelims pointers
- ILO: International Labour Organisation
- BRICS: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa
- Social protection coverage: 19% (2015) to 68.4% (2026)
- Scheme criteria: legislative backing, cash benefit, active, 3-year data
- Ministry: Ministry of Labour and Employment
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of social security in inclusive development and its impact on vulnerable sections.
- Critically examine the expansion of social protection in India and its alignment with ILO standards.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of government schemes in achieving universal social security coverage.