The Narendra Modi government has undertaken transformative social welfare programs and labor reforms, which serve as a cornerstone for building a “Viksit Bharat.” These initiatives aim to empower workers, improve employability, and ensure social security, contributing to the holistic development of the nation.
Below are some remarkable achievements:
e-Shram: A One-Stop Solution for Unorganized Workers
Launched as a centralized platform, e-Shram has become a game-changer for unorganized workers, with over 30 crore registrations. The platform provides access to 12 social welfare schemes, including:
- One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC)
- Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
- Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
- Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
e-Shram also facilitates targeted delivery of benefits to platform workers through data-sharing mechanisms with states and union territories.
National Career Service (NCS): Bridging Job Seekers and Employers
The NCS Portal has mobilized over 3.89 crore vacancies since its inception, integrating with 30 state/UT employment portals and private job platforms. This year alone:
- 1.89 crore vacancies were mobilized.
- Over 8,000 job fairs were conducted, with 2.7 lakh candidates selected for jobs.
- 11,451 overseas vacancies were posted by MEA-registered agents.
Additionally, the portal focuses on inclusivity by providing career counseling and job opportunities for differently-abled individuals and SC/ST candidates.
Building and Construction Workers MIS Portal
Launched to streamline data management for welfare boards, the portal has integrated with e-Shram in 10 states. This initiative ensures that workers in the construction sector receive social security benefits, including Ayushman Bharat health coverage.
Labour Codes Implementation
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has facilitated the harmonization of rules under the four labor codes across states. Steps such as:
- Single registration and single return system
- Firm-based common licenses with 5-year validity
- Transition of the role of Inspector to Inspector-cum-Facilitator
These reforms significantly enhance ease of doing business and reduce compliance burdens for employers.
Incentivizing Employment through the ELI Scheme
The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, aims to create jobs, promote formalization, and enhance employability. This initiative is a testament to the government’s focus on inclusive growth.
International Recognition
The ILO’s World Social Protection Report 2024-26 has acknowledged India’s success in doubling social protection coverage, reinforcing its commitment to welfare and global benchmarks.
International Labour Affairs
India doubled its social protection coverage estimate according to ILO’s World Social Protection Report 2024-26. The Targeted Public Distribution System is one of the world’s largest food security schemes, aiding 800 million people.
India and Germany signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to enhance bilateral cooperation in Employment and Labour.
Under G20, India collaborates with ILO and OECD on global skills gap mapping and international mobility initiatives.
A webinar on “Employment Opportunities for Youth in International Organisations” attracted over 1,100 students from top Delhi/NCR institutions.
A technical seminar on “Formalization and Social Security Coverage for Workers in Informal Sectors” is scheduled for January 2025, involving 32 Asia-Pacific countries and multilateral organizations.
In February 2025, India will host a regional event on “Responsible Business for Inclusive and Sustainable Societies” under the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
Efforts are being made to promote skilled mobility to European Union countries through streamlined visa processes and mutual recognition of qualifications.
India actively participated in international forums like ILO, BRICS, and G20, addressing crucial labour issues such as living wages, decent work, and skilling for the future.
Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)
EPFO’s Centralized Pension Payment System (CPPS) will enable pensioners to access their pensions from any bank in India starting January 2025.
Amendments to EPF Scheme, 1952 allow interest payments up to the date of settlement, benefiting millions of members.
EPFO Amnesty Scheme 2024 encourages employers to rectify past non-compliance without penalties.
Auto claim settlement limits for partial withdrawals increased from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000, aiding 7.5 crore members.
Enhanced Assurance Benefits through EDLI provide up to ₹7 lakh life cover to over 6 crore members.
EPFO approved a policy mandating higher returns and reinvestment strategies under the ETF Redemption Policy.
Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
The Prime Minister inaugurated projects worth ₹3,921 crores under ESIC.
In-principle approval for 10 new ESIC Medical Colleges in states like Maharashtra, Delhi, Assam, and more.
ESIC is converging with Ayushman Bharat – PMJAY to benefit over 14.43 crore beneficiaries at 30,000 empanelled hospitals.
Relaxed norms for setting up dispensaries in North-Eastern states to fulfill the Act East Policy.
Gig and Platform Worker Welfare
A framework for social security coverage is being developed for gig and platform workers through consultations and collaborative studies with ILO.
The Ministry constituted a dedicated committee to create a roadmap for implementing a social security scheme for gig workers.
Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme
The ELI Scheme incentivizes job creation and formalization, targeting around 4.1 crore youth with a total outlay of ₹2,00,000 crores over five years.
Part A provides one-month wages to first-time formal sector employees.
Part B reimburses EPFO contributions for employees and employers in the manufacturing sector.
Part C supports employers by reimbursing contributions for additional employees above the threshold salary.
The Narendra Modi government has taken remarkable steps towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. These initiatives reflect its commitment to social security, employment generation, and inclusive development, setting the foundation for a prosperous India by 2047.
The Modi government’s unwavering focus on labor welfare, social security, and employment generation is steering India toward becoming a developed nation. These programs not only uplift millions of workers but also align with the vision of “Viksit Bharat” by fostering equitable and inclusive growth.
© 2024 Vision Viksit Bharat Blog
