Union Minister for Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya interacted with beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to social security and inclusive development for unorganised workers. More than 100 beneficiaries of the scheme, along with their family members from different parts of the country, were invited as Special Guests in recognition of their contribution to the unorganised sector and their association with the flagship social security initiative.
Welcoming the beneficiaries on behalf of the Government of India, the Union Minister said the invitation was extended at the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting a citizen-centric approach to governance. He underlined that meaningful governance requires constant engagement with people to understand their concerns, aspirations and lived realities, particularly those working in the unorganised sector.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister reiterated that the Government is resolutely focused on ensuring dignity and long-term social security for unorganised workers. He said that sustained welfare initiatives and targeted schemes are collectively laying the foundation for a Sashakt Samriddha Bharat. Referring to the Republic Day celebrations, he highlighted the symbolic transition from Rajpath to Kartavya Path as a reflection of India’s evolving democratic ethos and a renewed emphasis on duty and collective responsibility.
The Minister outlined key welfare measures undertaken by the Government, including free foodgrains for nearly 80 crore citizens, expanded access to electricity and LPG connections, direct benefit transfers to farmers, and scholarship support for children’s education. He said these initiatives have significantly improved the quality of life of millions while strengthening social and economic security for vulnerable sections.
Beneficiaries shared their experiences of enrolling under the PM SYM scheme and spoke about the reassurance provided by the assured pension for their future. Many expressed gratitude for being invited to the national capital and for the opportunity to witness the Republic Day Parade, stating that the experience reinforced their confidence that the Government understands and values their contribution.
The interaction concluded with the Minister reiterating that the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains committed to building a strong, empowered and prosperous India by placing people at the centre of policy and governance.
The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme, launched in 2019, is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme for unorganised workers with a monthly income of up to ₹15,000 who are not covered under EPFO, ESIC or the National Pension Scheme. Workers in the age group of 18 to 40 years can enrol by making a small monthly contribution, with an equal matching contribution by the Central Government. On attaining the age of 60 years, beneficiaries are entitled to an assured minimum pension of ₹3,000 per month. The scheme also provides family pension benefits, including 50 per cent of the pension to the spouse in the event of the subscriber’s death. PM SYM is implemented through the Maandhan portal and Common Service Centres with free enrolment, underscoring the Government’s commitment to social and income security for the unorganised workforce.
