India has been conferred with the prestigious International Social Security Association (ISSA) Award 2025 for ‘Outstanding Achievement in Social Security’, recognising the Modi government’s efforts in expanding social protection across the nation. The award was presented at the World Social Security Forum (WSSF) 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, highlighted India’s historic progress, with social security coverage expanding from 19 per cent in 2015 to 64.3 per cent in 2025, covering over 940 million citizens.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Government of India, Dr. Mandaviya said, “This award is a testament to the vision of our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and to our guiding principle of Antyodaya, empowering the last person in the line, that has shaped our journey towards inclusive and universal social protection.”
India’s social protection initiatives have also strengthened its global standing. The country now holds thirty seats in the ISSA General Assembly, the highest vote share for any nation.
Dr. Mandaviya elaborated on India’s extensive digital public infrastructure, including the e-Shram portal, a national database connecting over 310 million unorganised workers to social welfare schemes. He also highlighted the National Career Service (NCS) portal, linking skilled youth with employers worldwide while ensuring social security coverage remains intact.
The Minister further acknowledged the role of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) in delivering healthcare, pension, and insurance benefits to the workforce.
“India is strengthening social security through policy, process, and digital reforms,” he said. “By combining financial access, skilling, self-employment, and technology, we are creating new income opportunities while providing a robust social security net. India stands at the forefront—ready to shape the future and inspire the world’s youth.”
