India Achieves Second Rank in Social Security Coverage

India Achieves Second Rank in Social Security Coverage

Why in the News ?

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), India’s social security coverage has risen from 19% in 2015 to 64.3% in 2025, benefiting over 94 crore people. India now ranks second globally in social protection coverage, reflecting major welfare progress and gaining global recognition from ILO.

Remarkable Growth in Social Security Coverage:

• India’s social security coverage has increased from 19% (2015) to 64.3% (2025), a 45 percentage point rise over the past decade.
• This growth is the fastest expansion globally, according to ILOSTAT data from the International Labour Organization (ILO).
• Over 94 crore Indians are now covered under at least one social protection benefit.

Global Recognition and Praise from ILO

• The ILO has acknowledged India’s achievement and officially listed the data on its dashboard.
• India ranks 2nd globally in terms of total social protection beneficiaries.
• ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo praised India’s pro-poor and labour welfare policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Policy Efforts and Government Commitment

• During the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Labour Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the role of government schemes over the past 11 years.
• The achievement reflects India’s push for a rights-based, inclusive social protection ecosystem.
• The Government’s focus on last-mile empowerment aligns with the commitment to “leave no one behind”.
• This global recognition ILO underscores India’s significant progress in social security coverage.