**

India's Social Security Net Expands Dramatically: 940 Million Beneficiaries, 64.3% Coverage Surge

India has witnessed a remarkable expansion of its social security coverage, according to a new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The report reveals a stunning 64.3% increase in social security coverage between 2015 and 2025, benefiting a staggering 940 million people. This significant leap signifies a transformative shift in India's social protection landscape and underscores the government's commitment to inclusive growth and poverty reduction. Keywords like India social security, social protection India, ILO report India, and social security schemes India are highly relevant and should drive significant search traffic.

From 19% to 83.3%: A Decade of Transformation

In 2015, a mere 19% of the Indian population enjoyed access to social security benefits. This limited coverage left a vast majority vulnerable to economic shocks, illness, and old age. However, a series of ambitious government initiatives implemented over the past decade have drastically altered this scenario. By 2025, the coverage rate soared to an impressive 83.3%, representing a phenomenal 64.3% increase. This achievement is a testament to the government's dedication to improving the lives of its citizens and strengthening the nation's social safety net. Further emphasis on social security benefits India, India pension schemes, and Ayushman Bharat (if applicable) would enhance SEO.

Key Drivers of Growth: Government Initiatives and Targeted Programs

Several factors contributed to this unprecedented expansion of social security coverage. The government's proactive approach, focusing on targeted programs and streamlined implementation, played a crucial role. Some key initiatives responsible for this surge include:

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): This scheme provides income support to small and marginal farmers, bolstering rural livelihoods and reducing rural poverty. The impact on rural social security is significant.
• Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM): This pension scheme targets the unorganized sector workers, offering them a much-needed safety net in old age. The program significantly improves social security for unorganized sector workers.
• Atal Pension Yojana (APY): Providing a guaranteed pension to informal sector workers, APY ensures a minimal level of income security in old age. Its impact on old age pension schemes India is substantial.
• National Health Mission (NHM): Improving healthcare access is integral to social security, and the NHM has played a critical role in enhancing healthcare infrastructure and accessibility. The integration of NHM with other initiatives is crucial for universal health coverage India.
• Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY): This health insurance scheme provides financial protection against catastrophic health expenditures, shielding millions from impoverishment due to medical bills. Its impact on health insurance coverage India is undeniable.

Reaching the Unreachable: Expanding Access to Marginalized Communities

A significant achievement lies in extending social security to traditionally marginalized and vulnerable groups. The government’s efforts have focused on bridging the gap between the privileged and underprivileged, ensuring that the benefits reach the most vulnerable sections of society. This inclusive approach is crucial for sustainable development and equitable growth. Keywords such as social inclusion India, inclusive growth India, and marginalized communities social security are essential for reaching a wider audience.

Challenges Remain: Addressing Gaps and Ensuring Sustainability

Despite this impressive progress, challenges remain. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of these schemes and addressing remaining gaps in coverage requires continuous efforts. Some key challenges include:

• Data Collection and Verification: Accurate data collection and verification remain crucial for efficient program delivery and minimizing leakages.
• Program Awareness and Outreach: Increasing awareness about existing social security schemes amongst eligible beneficiaries is vital for maximizing participation.
• Administrative Efficiency: Streamlining administrative processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles can further enhance program effectiveness.
• Financial Sustainability: Ensuring the financial sustainability of these schemes in the long run requires robust resource mobilization and efficient management.

Conclusion: A Milestone Towards a More Inclusive India

The substantial increase in India's social security coverage marks a significant milestone in the nation's journey towards inclusive growth. The expansion of social protection has not only improved the lives of millions but has also laid a strong foundation for a more equitable and resilient society. While challenges remain, the progress made underscores India's commitment to building a robust and comprehensive social security system that guarantees a safety net for all its citizens. This progress should be celebrated, but the work to ensure complete coverage continues. Focus on phrases like India's social security future, social security policy India, and improving social security India will further broaden the search reach.