What's Happening?
A recent survey conducted by the Directorate of Economics and Statistics in Nagaland has highlighted significant gaps in social security coverage for the state's workforce. The 'Survey Report on Employment, Unemployment, Skill and Migration in Nagaland 2025'
reveals that nearly half of the employed population in Nagaland lacks access to essential social security benefits such as pensions, healthcare, and gratuity. The survey, which was conducted across 11 districts, indicates that 46% of workers are ineligible for any social security benefits. Additionally, the report shows that approximately two-thirds of workers do not have written job contracts, underscoring the informal nature of employment in the region. The survey also notes that only 7% of workers have access to a full combination of pension, gratuity, and healthcare benefits, while 24% are covered by pension and provident funds.
Why It's Important?
The findings of this survey are significant as they highlight the precarious nature of employment in Nagaland, which could have broader implications for economic stability and social welfare in the region. The lack of social security coverage exposes workers to financial risks in the event of illness, injury, or job loss, potentially leading to increased poverty and economic insecurity. This situation underscores the need for policy interventions to improve social security coverage and formalize employment arrangements. The survey's results could prompt government and policymakers to address these issues, potentially leading to reforms that enhance worker protection and economic resilience in Nagaland.
What's Next?
The survey's findings may lead to increased advocacy for policy changes aimed at improving social security coverage and formalizing employment in Nagaland. Stakeholders, including government officials and labor organizations, might push for the implementation of schemes that provide comprehensive social security benefits to workers. Additionally, there could be efforts to raise awareness about existing social security schemes to ensure better enrollment and coverage. The government may also consider initiatives to encourage the formalization of employment contracts, which could provide greater job security and benefits for workers.
