DELHI (India CSR): The Government of India is taking significant steps to ensure the welfare of workers in the unorganized sector through the Unorganised Workers Social Security Act (UWSS), 2008. This legislation aims to provide comprehensive social security coverage by implementing various welfare schemes.
Life and Disability Cover
Under the UWSS Act, life and disability cover are provided through two key schemes: Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). PMJJBY is available for individuals aged 18 to 50 years, offering a risk coverage of Rs. 2 lakh in case of death from any cause, with an annual premium of Rs. 436. On the other hand, PMSBY is available to those aged 18 to 70 years, providing Rs. 2 lakh coverage for accidental death or total permanent disability, and Rs. 1 lakh for partial permanent disability, at a nominal annual premium of Rs. 20.
Health and Maternity Benefits
The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY) ensures health and maternity benefits. This scheme offers an annual health cover of Rs. 5 lakh per eligible family for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization, significantly reducing the financial burden of medical expenses on unorganized sector workers.
Old Age Protection
For old age security, the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan (PM-SYM) pension scheme was launched in 2019. It provides a monthly pension of Rs. 3000 after the beneficiary attains the age of 60 years. This scheme targets unorganized workers aged 18-40 years with a monthly income of Rs. 15,000 or less, who are not members of EPFO, ESIC, or NPS. The scheme operates on a contributory basis, where the beneficiary and the Central Government each contribute 50% of the monthly premium.
These schemes collectively aim to provide a safety net for workers in the unorganized sector, ensuring their financial security and well-being. The Government’s commitment to this cause was reiterated by the Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, in her recent written reply in the Lok Sabha. The implementation of these schemes reflects a robust effort to uplift the unorganized workforce and address their socio-economic challenges effectively.
