Nepal Marks 8th Social Security Day: Over 2.6 Million Citizens Enrolled Under Contribution-Based System

Nepal is observing the 8th Social Security Day today with the theme, “Social Security for All: Access to Universal Healthcare, a Pensionable Society, Increased Productivity, and Protection of Citizens’ Lives.” The day commemorates the government’s announcement of the contribution-based social security program introduced eight years ago to promote dignified labor relations and employment security.

A special ceremony is being held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar, with Prime Minister Sushila Karki as the chief guest. The government had formally launched the contribution-based Social Security Scheme on 27 November 2018 (11 Mangsir 2075) to implement the fundamental rights related to social security guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal.

According to the Social Security Fund (SSF), the contribution-based system aims to ensure the social security rights of workers and reduce economic and social risks. Executive Director Kabiraj Adhikari stated that the fund is working to bring all categories of workers under this system to strengthen universal social protection in the country.

The Fund has been expanding its coverage under the slogan “Expanding Coverage, Increasing Benefits for Workers.” SSF now includes workers from the formal sector, migrant workers, informal laborers, and self-employed individuals. As of Wednesday, more than 2.65 million citizens are covered under the contribution-based social security umbrella.

The Fund reported the following enrollment figures:

• 649,511 workers from the formal sector

• 1,996,579 migrant workers

• 799 workers from the informal sector

• 582 self-employed workers

The Social Security Fund currently operates several welfare schemes for workers and their families, including medical treatment, health and maternity care, accident and disability coverage, dependent family security, and old-age protection. Adhikari noted that these programs offer essential financial relief and long-term support to workers across the country.

So far, the Fund has collected a total contribution of Rs. 95.68 billion. Similarly, 253,143 workers have received benefits amounting to Rs. 17.72 billion under various social security schemes. The Fund also offers additional facilities such as interest on savings, monthly pension after completing a required contribution period, housing loans, and educational loans for registered contributors.

With the continuous expansion of contribution-based social security, experts believe Nepal is moving toward a stronger and more inclusive labor protection system. The initiative is expected to enhance formal employment, reduce vulnerability, and contribute to long-term socio-economic stability for millions of workers.