Periodic Labour Force Survey – April 2025
India recorded an unemployment rate of 5.1%. This figure was revealed through the newly revamped Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). For the first time, the data was released monthly, offering real-time vital information about employment trends. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) aims to enhance employment data accuracy by including rural areas in its surveys.
Revamped PLFS
The PLFS was originally launched in 2017. It has undergone changes to improve data collection. The revamped survey now includes rural employment statistics. Monthly estimates will be provided for key indicators such as the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) and Worker Population Ratio (WPR). These changes aim to address the demand for timely labour market information.
Key Employment Indicators
The PLFS will measure several vital indicators:
- Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): This indicates the percentage of the population that is either working or actively seeking work. Recently, the LFPR was 55.6%.
- Worker Population Ratio (WPR): This reflects the proportion of employed individuals in the total population. The overall WPR was noted at 52.8% in April 2025.
Demographic
The unemployment rate varies across demographics. Among men, the unemployment rate was 5.2%, while for women it was slightly lower at 5%. Notably, youth unemployment (ages 15-29) was higher, reaching 13.8%. Urban areas faced higher unemployment rates at 17.2%, compared to 12.3% in rural areas.
Gender Disparities
Gender disparities in employment are evident. The LFPR for women aged 15 years and above was only 38.2% in rural areas. In urban settings, this figure dropped to 23.5%. The WPR for women was also lower than men, indicating systemic issues in female employment.
Sampling Methodology
The revamped PLFS employs a larger sample size for accuracy. A total of 22,692 First Stage Units (FSUs) will be surveyed annually. This marks increase from previous surveys, enhancing the reliability of labour market estimates. The new methodology includes both urban and rural households, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Future Projections
The first quarterly bulletin covering both urban and rural areas is set for release in August 2025. This will further enhance understanding of employment trends across the country. The ongoing adjustments to the PLFS reflect the government’s commitment to improving labour market insights.
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