Existing safety net programs in India provide income and nutritional assistance during different stages of an individual’s life. Critics have pointed out to inefficiencies in the design and delivery mechanisms which reduce the effectiveness of these programs in benefiting the targeted population. In this chapter, we argue that safety nets should account for the changing economic structure, demographic transitions and shifting livelihood patterns. As India urbanizes, focusing on urban poor, diversifying away from staple grain-focused policy is essential. Use of tools such as ICTs to curb corruption and leakages from the safety nets is essential. Finally, we highlight the complementary role of essential public goods provision together with the expansion of safety nets for reducing vulnerability and structural poverty.