Impact of Social Security Measures in Unorganized Sector

The concept of social security is based on the ideas of human dignity and social justice. The principle underlying the social security measures said that the members of a community should be protected by collective action against social risks causing undue hardships to individuals whose resources are so limited to provide protection adequately. These risks are of such kind that an individual with little means available to his disposal cannot overcome them effectively, nor can in combination with others. The philosophy behind the social security scheme is that a citizen who has contributed or is likely to contribute to this country's welfare deserves due protection in times of distress. Article 21 of our constitution also guarantees Right to Life and as interpreted by the Supreme Court of India, it includes Right to Livelihood. The problem is acute in the unorganized sector which comprises those employed in small establishments outside the purview of the current social security legislation, those who are employed in a casual or on intermittent basis without any security of employment or income. In addition, the unemployed and the unemployable i.e., the aged, the handicapped, etc. also need social security. So, the Government of India has come out with various schemes which are highlighted in this study. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to highlight the schemes sponsored by the Government of India and the effect it has on the unorganized sector.