Consider the following statements regarding Social Protection in India:
1. The World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024 – 26 released by the International Labour Organization estimates that India’s social protection coverage has doubled from 2021 to 2024.
2. The Ministry of Labour and Employment estimates that nearly 65% of the population are now covered by at least one form of social protection, whether in cash or in kind, through Central Government schemes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct option is C

Statement 1 is correct: The World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024–26, released by the International Labour Organization (ILO), states that:

• India’s effective social protection coverage increased from about 24% in 2021 to around 48% in 2024.

• This represents a doubling of coverage within a short span, mainly due to digital delivery of benefits and expansion of flagship welfare schemes.

Statement 2 is correct: According to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India:

• Nearly 65% of India’s population is now covered by at least one form of social protection, either cash or in-kind, through Central Government schemes.

• This estimate includes coverage under schemes related to food security, housing, health insurance, income support, and employment.

This figure has been officially cited by the Ministry in the context of India’s progress on SDG-1 (No Poverty) and SDG-8 (Decent Work).