Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Extreme Poverty and Human Rights, Professor Olivier De Schutter, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 29 June 2021)

Madam President,

We welcome the Special Rapporteur’s thematic report that stresses on the need for ensuring social security to all individuals and recommends setting up of a global fund for social protection to increase support to low-income countries. We also welcome the references made by the SR to the positive impact of India’s Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

Madam President,

COVID-19 pandemic has had unprecedented and devastating socio-economic impact globally. It has disproportionately affected the Developing and Least Developed Countries. It has also laid bare the divide between the Global North and the Global South in terms of access to resources, including healthcare and vaccines. India has always advocated a collective global response and has been in forefront of the global action in this regard. The SR’s call to action is, therefore, very timely.

The Government of India remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure fullest enjoyment of basic human rights by all Indians.  It envisions complete eradication of poverty and is committed to leaving no one behind. Targeted developmental initiatives seek to provide universal social security, health coverage, access to water supply, sanitation and quality education for all Indians. Basic income security for senior citizens, the disabled and widows is being ensured. The recently enacted Social Security Code, 2020 contains comprehensive provisions for contributory pension, insurance and social security fund for unorganized sector workers.

I thank you.