Social Security — Current Affairs 2026

Current Affairs Connections

Recent developments and news linked to Social Security.

Government Explores Universal Basic Income Pilot for Vulnerable Groups

October 2025

Discussions are underway within NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance regarding a potential pilot project for Universal Basic Income (UBI) in select districts. This initiative, if implemented, could represent a significant shift in India's social security paradigm, moving from targeted, conditional schemes to a universal, unconditional income floor. The debate centers on fiscal feasibility, potential disincentives to work, and the administrative simplicity compared to existing complex welfare programs. From a UPSC perspective, this is a high-relevance topic for Mains, particularly on its economic implications, poverty alleviation potential, and challenges in a diverse country like India.

UPSC Angle: Analyze the pros and cons of UBI in the Indian context, its potential impact on poverty and inequality [VY:ECO-02-03], and its implications for fiscal policy [VY:ECO-08-02] and existing social security schemes.

Code on Social Security 2020 Implementation: Focus on Gig Workers and e-Shram Integration

April 2024

The Ministry of Labour & Employment has reiterated its commitment to operationalize the Code on Social Security, 2020, with a particular focus on extending benefits to gig and platform workers. The e-Shram portal, which has registered over 29 crore unorganized workers, is envisioned as the backbone for delivering these benefits. This move aims to address the long-standing challenge of informal sector coverage, providing a framework for health, maternity, and old-age benefits to a rapidly growing segment of the workforce. The implementation details, especially regarding contribution mechanisms for gig workers, are keenly watched.

UPSC Angle: Discuss the significance of the Code on Social Security 2020 for India's informal economy. Evaluate the role of the e-Shram portal in universalizing social security and the specific challenges and opportunities in extending benefits to gig and platform workers.