Elgi Equipments Limited — Others, 03-07-2025: Copy of Newspaper Publication

The Ministry of Labour and Employment is urging the Commerce Ministry to prioritize social security schemes in trade negotiations, notably with the US, to protect Indian expatriates working abroad. India already has agreements with 22 countries allowing workers to continue participating in domestic social security programs, avoiding double contributions. This push aims to safeguard financial welfare amid expanding coverage, now over 64% of India’s population. Coordination among multiple ministries is required for effective implementation. Meanwhile, the UK-India free trade agreement includes a reciprocal social security arrangement exempting short-term Indian workers from UK national insurance contributions.