Remarkable Growth in Social Protection Under PM Modi’s Leadership, Says Assam CM

Guwahati | Date: June 12, 2025

In a proud declaration of policy success, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has hailed the rise in social protection coverage to 64.3% as a remarkable growth in social protection under PM Modi’s leadership. The significant increase has been marked as a transformative development in India’s social welfare trajectory, sparking political and public discussions around the effectiveness of welfare schemes rolled out in the past decade.

Remarkable Growth in Social Protection Recognized Across India

The Chief Minister emphasized that this upsurge in social protection is a clear reflection of the Modi government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive governance. Sarma attributed the remarkable growth in social protection to robust policy frameworks, digital delivery mechanisms, and targeted welfare initiatives aimed at the most vulnerable sections of society.

“Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has achieved a phenomenal transformation in the delivery of social welfare. Reaching 64.3% in social protection coverage is not just a statistic, it’s a testament to visionary governance,” Sarma said during a press interaction in Guwahati.

Central Schemes Driving the Surge

Several flagship schemes have contributed to this remarkable growth in social protection, including PM-KISAN, Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), and Ujjwala Yojana. Each has been meticulously structured to address critical needs such as health, housing, financial inclusion, and food security.

What makes these programs even more impactful is their seamless integration with technology, ensuring transparency, accountability, and real-time benefits for beneficiaries. Through the use of Aadhaar-linked databases and direct benefit transfers (DBT), leakages have reduced drastically, allowing social welfare to reach the grassroots.

Assam’s Role in National Welfare Expansion

Assam has emerged as a frontrunner among northeastern states in implementing central welfare schemes. According to the CM, over 70% of the state’s eligible population now benefits from at least one social protection initiative. From rural employment programs to women-focused financial aid, the state government has played a vital role in facilitating this remarkable growth in social protection.

Additionally, the Chief Minister reiterated that efforts are ongoing to achieve 100% coverage in social protection by 2027, aligning with the broader national goal of holistic development and economic inclusion.

Global Perspective and Local Impact

The spike in India’s social protection index places the country on a progressive trajectory compared to several developing nations. It reinforces India’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to poverty reduction, gender equality, and decent work.

People in rural and tribal regions of Assam have reportedly felt a direct positive impact. With access to subsidized housing, free medical treatment, and nutritional aid, many families are now experiencing stability and improved living standards.

Political Reactions and Future Projections

While the ruling BJP has celebrated the numbers, opposition parties have called for more detailed transparency in data reporting. However, most economists agree that the overall increase is indicative of structural improvements in India’s welfare machinery.

Experts predict that if this remarkable growth in social protection continues, India could soon enter the league of nations with near-universal social safety coverage — a milestone that seemed distant just a decade ago.

A Blueprint for the Future

The government’s next phase of action includes expanding social protection for informal workers, strengthening gig economy labor laws, and developing pension schemes for low-income groups. The goal is not just to sustain the remarkable growth in social protection, but to create an ecosystem where social security becomes a guaranteed right, not a privilege.

Conclusion

The rise in social protection to 64.3% is a substantial achievement by any metric. As India continues to redefine its welfare strategy under PM Modi’s governance, this remarkable growth in social protection serves as a pivotal chapter in the nation’s development journey.