Current Context: India, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), conducted a comprehensive data-pooling exercise to assess social protection coverage across 34 major schemes, including Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), and Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN).

• Key Highlights
  • Coverage: 65% of the population (92 crore) benefits from at least one scheme; 48.8% receive cash benefits.
  • Data Insights: Coverage doubled from 24.4% (2021) to 48.8% (2024). Excludes in-kind benefits and state-specific schemes.
  • Phase 01 States: Focus on 10 states, including Uttar Pradesh (UP), Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, for data consolidation.
• Significance
  • Efficient Welfare: Prevents duplication, optimizing welfare spending.
  • Global Recognition: Strengthens India’s role in trade and social security negotiations.
  • Collaboration with ILO: Advocates inclusion of food security and housing in assessments.