India Sees Historic Surge in Women’s Workforce Participation

India is witnessing a historic rise in women’s workforce participation. From 2017-18 to 2023-24, female labour force participation nearly doubled. This surge is a key pillar of the vision for a developed India by 2047, where women are equal partners in economic progress. The government’s policies, legal reforms, and empowerment missions have created an enabling environment for women across sectors.

Recent Trends in Female Workforce Participation

Female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) rose from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24. Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for women above 15 years increased from 22% to 40.3% in the same period. Recently, monthly data shows continued growth, with female WPR reaching 32% in August. Formal employment is also rising, as seen in EPFO data where 26.9 lakh new female subscribers joined in 2024-25. These figures reflect a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

India’s Position Among BRICS Nations

India leads BRICS countries in growth of women’s labour participation. From 2015 to 2024, India’s female LFPR grew by over 23%. Other BRICS nations like Brazil, China, and Russia have seen stagnation or declines. South Africa recorded modest gains. India’s progress is attributed to targeted policies enhancing skills, credit access, and formal employment opportunities. This positions India as a global example of inclusive economic growth.

Legal Framework Supporting Women Workers

Several laws protect and empower women at work – – Maternity Benefit Act (Amended 2017) – Extends maternity leave to 26 weeks and mandates workplace crèches for firms with 50+ employees. Supports surrogate mothers too. – Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013) – Ensures safe work environments through Internal Complaints Committees and Local Complaints Committees for redressal. – Equal Remuneration Act (1976) – Guarantees equal pay for equal work, aiming to reduce gender wage gaps. – Code on Social Security (2020) – Extends maternity and social security benefits to unorganised and platform workers. – Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code (2020) – Focuses on health, safety, night shift work with consent, and transportation for women workers.

Government Initiatives for Women’s Empowerment

– SHe-Box Portal – Centralised online platform for monitoring sexual harassment complaints and ensuring accountability. – Mission Shakti (2024) – Comprehensive programme with two verticals –
Sambal (Safety & Security) – One Stop Centres, 24/7 Women Helpline (181-WHL), Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Nari Adalat for community grievance redressal.
Samarthya (Empowerment & Rehabilitation) – Includes Shakti Sadan for women in distress, PM Matru Vandana Yojana for maternity benefits, Sakhi Niwas for safe accommodation, Palna crèche facilities, and SANKALP for scheme facilitation.

Impact on Socio-Economic Landscape

Women are increasingly shaping India’s economy from rural artisans to urban innovators. The rise in women-led enterprises and gender-sensitive policies signal a new era of inclusive growth. Empowering women with education, safety, and entrepreneurship is unlocking their potential as economic drivers. This transformation aligns with India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.