Social Security Schemes for the Unorganized Sector in India: A Critical Analysis

The concept of Social Security is related to the high ideals of human dignity and social justice. It is the security provided by the society to its members, particularly the weaker ones, so that they can lead a normal and decent life even under adverse circumstances. This paper aims to study and critically analyze the various social security schemes for the unorganized sector in India. The unorganized sector is massive and comprises the bulk of the countryís workforce. They are the people who need social security the most and so the government has designed certain schemes exclusively for this sector. The paper has been divided into four parts. While the first part is introductory in nature and attempts to explain the concept of Social Security, the second part describes the unorganized sector in India providing its characteristics and features. Some data is also provided to present a clear picture of this sector. In the third part, various Social Security schemes for the unorganized sector are described. To present an overview, information is tabulated for most of the schemes that are grouped under four headings namely Centrally Funded Schemes, Social Insurance Schemes, Social Assistance Schemes and Public Initiatives. Finally, the schemes described are critically analyzed. It has been pointed out that schemes have not been able to achieve their purpose despite genuine efforts by the government and non profit organizations. Some suggestions to overcome these problems are provided towards the end. These include phasing out of the implementation of the schemes, proper legislation and decentralization of administration of the schemes.