Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the need for an annual infrastructure investment of Rs 15 trillion, an increase from the current Rs 11.5 trillion, to realise the government’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047. This push is particularly significant as India celebrates 100 years of independence in 2047, and the government aims to achieve social security for all.Speaking at the inaugural session of the ISSA-ESIC International Seminar on 'Formalisation & Social Security Coverage for Workers in the Informal Sector: Challenges & Innovations,' Mandaviya outlined that the infrastructure budget was Rs 1.2 trillion in 2012 and Rs 2.4 trillion in 2014 under the Modi government. He stressed the need for continued growth, proposing that the budget rise to Rs 15 trillion annually over the next 25 years to ensure India’s development.“India’s economy is expanding rapidly, increasing people's purchasing power and creating new job opportunities. To make India a developed country by 2047, we must invest Rs 15 trillion in infrastructure every year for the next 25 years,” Mandaviya stated.The minister also emphasised the importance of social security for workers in emerging sectors, such as gig workers, noting the growing need for coverage under government schemes. He highlighted that social security coverage has increased from 24% in 2014 to 48%, excluding food security, which, when added, boosts the figure to 68%, marking significant progress.Mandaviya underscored India’s achievements in social security over the past decade, citing that 600 million people now have health security, which provides free treatment up to Rs 500,000. Additionally, 800 million people are covered under the country’s food security program, receiving 5 kg of food grains free of charge.He noted that 250 million people have risen above the poverty line in the last 10 years, largely due to social security programs. India’s workforce now includes 630 million people, with female participation growing from 22% a decade ago to 44% today. He also pointed out the increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), India’s improved ranking in ease of doing business, and the rise in startups, positioning Indian companies as global players.Mandaviya stressed that social security should extend to all workers, including those in the informal sector, self-employed individuals, and government employees, reflecting the vision of Chanakya, who emphasised the importance of dignified living for all members of society.(NDTVProfit)