Evaluate the role of social security in addressing the vulnerabilities of an ageing population. Assess the challenges posed by labour informality. Suggest reforms to strengthen universal social protection.

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes;

Q3. Evaluate the role of social security in addressing the vulnerabilities of an ageing population. Assess the challenges posed by labour informality. Suggest reforms to strengthen universal social protection. (15 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: TH

Why the question

The question gains relevance in the context of India’s declining fertility, rising elderly population and the need to strengthen social security systems for an ageing society with a predominantly informal workforce.

Key Demand of the question

The question requires evaluating how social security addresses the vulnerabilities of an ageing population and assessing the challenges created by labour informality. It also requires suggesting reforms to build a universal, inclusive and sustainable social protection system.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction

Briefly introduce India’s ongoing demographic transition and the growing importance of universal social protection in achieving inclusive welfare.

Body

• Role of social security: Mention how social security reduces the vulnerabilities associated with ageing.
• Challenges of labour informality: Highlight how a predominantly informal workforce limits the effectiveness and coverage of social protection.
• Reforms for universal social protection: Suggest broad policy and institutional measures to strengthen an inclusive social security architecture.

Conclusion

Conclude by emphasizing that a universal, portable and fiscally sustainable social protection system is essential for ensuring dignified ageing and inclusive development.