Social security coverage expanded from 19 pc in 2014 to 64 pc now, says Mandaviya, cites ILO report

Hyderabad, Jul 14 (PTI) Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said, citing an ILO report, that social security coverage in India has expanded from 19 per cent in 2014 to over 64 per cent now, encompassing 94 crore people. Speaking after inaugurating the new OPD Block of ESIC Hospital at Sanath Nagar here, he highlighted the Union Government's efforts towards strengthening social security and said the number of ESIC beneficiaries has increased from around 7.5 crore a decade ago to over 15 crore at present. "12 years ago, 19 per cent, that means 25 crore people in the country had social security cover. But, today, the last report of International Labour Organisation (ILO) stated that 64 per cent, that is 94 crore people, were brought under social security coverage," he said. Speaking about labour reforms, he said the four Labour Codes, which replaced 29 existing labour laws, paved the way for a simplified and worker-centric labour framework. He highlighted provisions of the labour codes such as mandatory appointment letters, annual free health check-ups for workers above 40 years of age, equal wages for men and women, and gratuity eligibility after one year of service. Emphasising the importance of harmonious industrial relations, Mandaviya urged employers and employees to work together towards building a developed and prosperous India. Referring to the inauguration of the hospital, he expressed confidence that the facility would strengthen healthcare services for workers. Responding to Telangana Labour Minister G Vivek Venkatswamy's requests, Mandaviya assured that a hospital at Ramagundam town (where a fertiliser plant is located) and a nursing college in Telangana would be started next year. PTI SJR SJR ADB