Systematic Literature Review on Social Insurance for Supporting Coal Mine Workers A Welfare Programs in Coal Dependent Regions of Jharkhand, India

Coal has been the backbone of Jharkhand’s economy and has employed thousands of workers. But coal mine workers face severe occupational hazards, financial insecurity and limited access to social welfare programs. This study conducts a systematic review (2010-2024) to assess the effectiveness of social insurance schemes for coal miners in Jharkhand. Using the Preferred Reporting item for the Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) framework, 30 studies were analysed to evaluate coverage, implementation challenges and gaps in key policies including Employee State Insurance (ESI), Coal Mines Provident Fund (CMPF) and government sponsored pension schemes. The results show several problems, including poor health care, slow compensation, and the omission of contractual and informal workers from important welfare programs. However, the corporate social responsibility initiatives by Coal India Limited and other entities to provide extra support are inconsistent and thus not very effective in the long run. The review also reveals the urgent need for policy changes to increase financial security, extend insurance coverage to informal workers, improve the availability of healthcare and compensation systems. This research helps to expand the more general discussion about labour welfare in coal-reliant regions, therefore asking for a more comprehensive and long-term social insurance policy. As Jharkhand transitions to a more diversified economic environment, reinforcing these welfare programs is essential for guaranteeing coal miners and their families a dignified and stable living.