EVOLUTION OF THE CONCEPT OF SOCIAL SECUTITY IN INDIA- CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTATION AND WAY FORWARD.

Abstract

The term “Social Security” originated in the United States and spread out subsequently across the world. Political leaders, economists, social workers and researchers have put emphasis on the significance of social security differently. Now, the concept of social security and its importance have been universally recognized. It has been acknowledged on principle that social security is one of the most important objectives of social welfare activities of all countries though the countries are different from one another on political ideologies, socio-economic policies and conditions as well as cultural practices. Scope, coverage and procedures for implementation of various social security programmes may be different in different countries but the rationale is the same.

The basic concept of social security refers to a “minimum standard of living” to every citizen of the society against various adverse circumstances of the life. It is predicated on the idea that the state should shoulder the burden of securing a decent quality of living for all citizens, no matter what might happen to them. Contrarily, social security is the state's major tool for promoting social and economic fairness. The poor and helpless members of society who are unable to support themselves through their own efforts have a fundamental right to and need for social security. To alleviate poverty and inequality and to ensure a basic living standard, social security is a must. Social security is founded on the principles of social justice and respect for the inherent worth of every individual, with a special focus on the most disadvantaged and helpless members of society who live Below Poverty Line. Although not explicitly guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, the right to social security is universal and its realization will aid in the pursuit of many national development objectives.

Throughout their lives, people of all backgrounds, classes, religions, cultures, and social standings require assistance in the areas of social, economic, physical, mental, and emotional well-being. You need other people at certain points in your life if you want to keep on living. This assistance or reliance is mostly economic in nature, since it entails providing for basic needs such as food, clothes, and a roof over one's head. One's primary dependency lasts for two distinct periods of time: the first, from birth until the individual begins earning on his own to fulfill basic requirements; the second, upon the individual's cessation of employment or the end of his working life. Unemployment, job loss, disability, illness, and other unforeseen circumstances can all be difficult periods of dependence. Those who are financially dependent on their families' breadwinners include minors, women who are unable to work, and widows who cannot find employment. Support was traditionally supplied by extended families, clans, groups, communities, and religious organizations. We also see those social groupings, membership institutions, the market, and the state provide such forms of assistance. Therefore, if one institution fails to provide necessary assistance or provides inadequate care, it is the responsibility of the other institutions to ensure the individual's well-being. You may call the safety net that society provides for the disabled and elderly a form of social security.