India has earned global acclaim, becoming the fifth nation to receive the prestigious ISSA Award for Outstanding Achievement in Social Security. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya accepted the honour, attributing it to Prime Minister Modi’s vision for inclusive protection. The country’s social security coverage dramatically expanded from 19% in 2015 to a projected 64.
India’s Social Security Leap: A Global Nod
India’s journey towards comprehensive social security has taken a monumental leap forward, earning global recognition. The International Social Security Association (ISSA) has bestowed upon India the prestigious ISSA Award for Asia and the Pacific 2025, a testament to the nation’s remarkable progress in expanding its social security net. But this isn’t just an award; it’s a story of transformation, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of a more secure future for all Indians.
For years, a significant portion of India’s vast population lived outside the protective umbrella of social security. Traditional systems, often fragmented and limited in scope, left many vulnerable to economic shocks and hardships. But the winds of change began to blow, fueled by a vision of inclusive growth and a commitment to uplifting the lives of every citizen.
The numbers speak volumes. In just a decade, India has witnessed an astounding surge in social security coverage, jumping from a mere 19% to an impressive 64%. This isn’t just a statistical increase; it represents millions of individuals, families, and communities now equipped with the safeguards they need to navigate life’s uncertainties. Pensions, healthcare, disability benefits, and unemployment assistance are now within reach for a far greater number of people, offering a crucial safety net against poverty and vulnerability.
Decoding India’s Social Security Success Story
So, what fueled this remarkable turnaround? Several key factors played a crucial role. A pivotal element has been the government’s unwavering commitment to expanding social security programs and streamlining their delivery. Initiatives like the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) have proven instrumental in bringing millions into the social security fold.
These programs, designed with a focus on accessibility and affordability, have successfully overcome traditional barriers to entry. The APY, for instance, offers a guaranteed pension to workers in the unorganized sector, providing a crucial source of income security in their old age. PMJAY, often dubbed “Ayushman Bharat,” provides health insurance coverage to millions of vulnerable families, ensuring access to quality healthcare without the crippling burden of out-of-pocket expenses.
Beyond specific programs, a crucial shift has been the adoption of technology to improve efficiency and reduce leakages. Digital platforms and biometric identification systems have helped streamline beneficiary identification, reduce fraud, and ensure that benefits reach the intended recipients in a timely manner. This technological leap has been instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness and accountability of social security programs. You might be interested in reading about India’s digital infrastructure and its impact on financial inclusion.
The Road Ahead for Social Security
While the ISSA award is a well-deserved recognition of India’s achievements, the journey is far from over. Reaching universal social security coverage remains the ultimate goal. The challenge lies in extending coverage to the remaining uncovered segments of the population, particularly those in the informal sector and marginalized communities. Innovation and adaptation will be key to addressing these challenges. Exploring new models of social security financing, leveraging technology to reach remote areas, and tailoring programs to meet the specific needs of diverse communities will be essential to achieving truly inclusive social security.
India’s success story serves as an inspiration to other developing nations striving to build robust social security systems. The country’s experience demonstrates that with strong political will, innovative program design, and effective implementation, it is possible to significantly expand social security coverage and improve the lives of millions. The ISSA award is not just a celebration of past achievements but also a call to action, urging India to continue its journey towards a future where every citizen enjoys the basic human right to social security.
