India readiness assessment: delivering anticipatory social protection

This study uses the ASPIRE tool to evaluate the readiness and effectiveness of social protection systems in India, identifying gaps and opportunities to improve anticipatory measures and climate resilience. 

The analysis shows that India's social protection framework is a complex, multi-ministerial initiative with no single overarching policy. However, it includes well-coordinated programmes like MGNREGA, NFSA, PDS and PM-KISAN that target various vulnerable populations. These programmes are supplemented with efficient targeting mechanisms and focus on livelihood enhancement. While innovations such as the "One Nation One Ration Card" and Aadhaar-linked direct benefit transfers improve delivery and coverage, there are still challenges like beneficiary identification errors. 

With rights-based legislation, these programmes also aim for transparency and accountability through public databases and social audits. In terms of technology, Aadhaar-linked national databases and pilot initiatives like CRISP-M under MGNREGA indicate a push towards more effective targeting and delivery. Overall, while the social protection landscape in India is advancing in inclusivity and transparency, there is room for improvement in financial preparedness and anticipatory support.