The latest labour data compiled by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) reveals a significant surge in women’s participation in India’s workforce.
According to the Annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Reports, the proportion of women in the estimated Worker Population Ratio (WPR) indicating employment has jumped from 22% in 2017-18 to a robust 40.3% in 2023-24.
Similarly, the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) on usual status for women aged 15 years and above rose from 23.3% during 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24.
Women in Workforce: Government Initiatives and Provisions
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, highlighted that employment generation coupled with improving employability is a priority for the government.
The government has incorporated numerous provisions in the labour laws to ensure equal opportunity and a congenial work environment for women workers.
These include paid maternity leave, flexible working hours, and equal wages.
Additionally, the government has implemented various schemes to boost the female LFPR and overall LFPR, such as the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), Stand-UP India Scheme, Startup India, and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
Training and Support Programs
To enhance the employability of female workers, the government is providing training through a network of Women Industrial Training Institutes, National Vocational Training Institutes, and Regional Vocational Training Institutes.
The Budget 2024-25 announced the Prime Minister’s package of five schemes and initiatives to facilitate employment, skilling, and other opportunities for 4.1 crore youth over a five-year period.
This package comes with a central outlay of Rs 2 lakh crore.
The budget also includes setting up working women hostels in collaboration with industry.
Additionally, it focuses on establishing creches to support women’s participation in the workforce.
Women in Workforce: Impact and Future Prospects
The increase in women’s participation in the workforce is a positive indicator of the country’s progress towards gender equality.
Govt’s efforts to create a supportive environment for women workers and provide them with opportunities for skill development and employment are significant.
These initiatives are expected to continue driving this upward trend.
As more women join the workforce, their contributions are anticipated to play a crucial role in the nation’s development.
This increased participation will significantly enhance the country’s prosperity.
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