Over the past six years, India has witnessed a significant rise in female workforce participation, marking a transformative shift in the country’s labor market dynamics.
According to the latest data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), there has been a notable increase in female employment indicators, reflecting enhanced engagement of women in economic activities.
Rising Female Labor Force Participation Rate (FLFPR)
One of the most striking trends is the sharp rise in the Female Labor Force Participation Rate (FLFPR).
Between 2017-18 and 2023-24, the FLFPR increased from 24.6% to 47.6%, indicating a significant contribution of women to both rural and urban production.
This rise is particularly pronounced in rural areas, where women have increasingly participated in economic activities.
The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for women has doubled from 22% in 2017-18 to 40.3% in 2023-24.
Similarly, the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for women has increased from 23.3% to 41.7% during the same period.
These metrics highlight the growing number of women actively seeking and securing employment, contributing to the overall economic stability of the country.
The female unemployment rate has also seen a significant decline, dropping from 5.6% in 2017-18 to 3.2% in 2023-24.
This reduction in unemployment signifies improved job availability and economic opportunities for women across various sectors.
Educational Advancements and Female Workforce Participation
An upward trend in the participation of educated women in the workforce has been observed.
Around 39.6% of women with a postgraduate education or higher are working in 2023-24, compared to 34.5% in 2017-18.
Similarly, 23.9% of women with a higher secondary education are in the workforce, up from 11.4% in 2017-18.
Even women with primary education have seen an increase in workforce participation, with 50.2% working in 2023-24 compared to 24.9% in 2017-18.
The rise in female workforce participation has had a positive impact on both rural and urban economies.
In rural areas, women have contributed significantly to agricultural production and related activities.
In urban areas, women have entered various sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, and manufacturing, bringing fresh ideas, skills, and dedication that fuel economic growth.
Government Initiatives and Support
The government has played a crucial role in promoting female workforce participation through various initiatives and policies.
These include educational reforms, skill development programs, and support for women entrepreneurs.
The emphasis on creating an equitable and vibrant labor market has been a key driver of the transformation in female workforce participation.
The enhanced female workforce participation in economic activity over the last six years is a testament to India’s progress towards gender equality and economic inclusivity.
The collective efforts of the government, businesses, and society have contributed to creating a more equitable labor market where women play a leading role in shaping the nation’s future.
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