Social Security Coverage and Awareness among Women Labour in Small-Scale Industries: Evidence from Indore, Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

This study examines the coverage, awareness, and satisfaction with statutory social security provisions among women labourers employed in small-scale industries (SSIs) in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. Drawing on primary data collected from 444 women workers through a structured interview schedule, non-participant observation, and focused group discussions, the study assesses awareness of core labour welfare legislation — including the Maternity Benefit Act, the Payment of Gratuity Act, and the Employees' State Insurance Act — as well as uptake of national social security schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-SYM), the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), and the Public Distribution System (PDS). Findings indicate high nominal awareness of most statutory schemes (78–98 per cent) but only moderate satisfaction with their practical implementation, with the sharpest gaps observed in financial support during unemployment and disability benefit access. Awareness of contributory pension and insurance schemes substantially exceeds awareness of employer-linked statutory entitlements, suggesting a two-track social security landscape. The study concludes that legal awareness does not automatically translate into adequate coverage or satisfaction, and that implementation gaps — rather than information gaps — constitute the principal barrier to effective social security for women labour in the SSI sector. Policy recommendations focus on strengthening employer compliance monitoring, simplifying claim processes, and integrating scheme awareness with grievance redress mechanisms.