Abstract

Social security schemes in India between 2018 and 2025 played a crucial role in addressing poverty alleviation income support healthcare access old-age protection and social inclusion. The government introduced and expanded a range of welfare programs such as Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana PM-KISAN Atal Pension Yojana and various state-level initiatives targeting vulnerable populations. These schemes reflected the state’s responsibility to protect citizens against economic risks and social vulnerabilities. This paper critically examines the trajectory and effectiveness of India’s social security schemes during this period. It highlights achievements such as financial inclusion health coverage expansion and income stabilization while also analyzing challenges like leakage in benefits digital exclusion and inadequate funding. The study argues that social security schemes have been vital for promoting social justice and reducing inequality but their long-term effectiveness