India has nearly doubled the proportion of its population covered under “at least one branch of social protection”, rising from 24% to 49% in a short span, International Labour Organization (ILO) director-general Gilbert Houngbo said on Monday.
Speaking at the ‘Regional Dialogue on Social Justice’ in New Delhi, Houngbo described this as a “remarkable achievement”, crediting India’s strong partnership with the ILO and the government’s decisive actions in expanding social protection over the past few years.
According to the World Social Protection Report 2024-26, released by the ILO, the proportion of India’s population covered by “at least one social protection benefit (excluding health)” increased from 24.4% in 2021 to 48.8% in 2024.
“I salute this tremendous progress in social protection, which serves as a model for the rest of the world. India’s efforts not only benefit its own citizens but also inspire other nations to improve their social protection systems,” Houngbo said.
At the same event, labour minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted India’s reforms over the past decade to create quality jobs, enhance labour market flexibility, and expand social security coverage. “The e-Shram portal, with over 300 million registered unorganised workers, exemplifies our efforts to strengthen last-mile delivery of social benefits,” Mandaviya said. He also launched the e-Shram mobile app, aimed at further improving accessibility and convenience for workers across the country.
“India’s journey toward social justice is deeply rooted in its commitment to inclusive growth and equitable development,” he said.
The labour minister further noted that with 65% of India’s population under the age of 35, skill development is a national priority. “The employability of Indian graduates has risen from 33.95% in 2013 to 54.81% in 2024,” he said.