Unorganized Workers Social Security Act — Current Affairs 2026

Current Affairs Connections

Recent developments and news linked to Unorganized Workers Social Security Act.

e-Shram Portal Crosses 30 Crore Registrations, Boosts Social Security Outreach

Early 2024 (Ongoing)

The e-Shram portal, launched in August 2021, has been a game-changer for the Unorganized Workers' Social Security Act, 2008. By early 2024, it had registered over 30 crore unorganized workers, creating a comprehensive national database. This digital platform directly addresses the registration challenges outlined in Section 10 of the UWSSA, facilitating the identification of beneficiaries for various social security schemes. Its success is crucial for improving the reach and efficiency of benefits like accident insurance (PMSBY) and other welfare measures, especially post-COVID-19, by enabling direct benefit transfers and ensuring portability across states. This initiative showcases the government's commitment to leveraging technology for social welfare.

UPSC Angle: Analyze the impact of the e-Shram portal on the implementation of the Unorganized Workers' Social Security Act, 2008. Discuss its potential to address challenges of identification, portability, and benefit delivery for unorganized workers. (15 marks, 250 words)

Union Budget 2024-25 Allocations for Social Security Schemes Emphasize Inclusive Growth

February 2024

The Union Budget 2024-25 continued to prioritize social security, with significant allocations for schemes that directly benefit unorganized workers, such as the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan (PM-SYM) and the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY). These budgetary provisions are critical for the funding mechanisms outlined in Section 4 of the UWSSA, 2008, ensuring the financial sustainability of schemes providing old-age protection, life, and disability cover. The emphasis on inclusive growth and 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' in the budget speech directly aligns with the UWSSA's objective of extending social protection to the most vulnerable segments of the workforce, reflecting ongoing government commitment.

UPSC Angle: Examine how recent budgetary allocations (e.g., Union Budget 2024-25) contribute to the effective implementation and expansion of social security schemes for unorganized workers under the UWSSA, 2008. (10 marks, 150 words)