Urban India's Women Workforce: Employment Rate Surges by 10% in Six Years, Says Report

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Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-03-19 08:58:20 |

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Ahead of International Women's Day 2025, a report from the Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, reveals a 10% increase in women’s employment in urban India over six years, from 2017-18 to 2023-24. The report shows women in their forties leading urban female employment with a 38.3% participation rate in 2023-24. However, it raises concerns over the underutilization of skilled women and risks of diversity backlash, with over 89 million urban women still excluded from the labor market. Barriers like caregiving duties, limited flexible work options, and commuting challenges hinder greater economic participation.

Additionally, urban youth unemployment reflects a troubling trend, with male unemployment surpassing female rates (10% vs. 7.5% for ages 20-24). Gender disparities persist even among highly educated, dual-income households; in 62% of cases, husbands earn more despite similar qualifications, and 41% of wives shoulder primary domestic responsibilities compared to just 2% of husbands.

Urban mothers working remotely face further challenges, with 86% spending up to three hours daily on childcare during work hours, yet only 44% feel adequately supported. The report underscores the need for robust workplace policies that support working mothers and promote gender equity.

“While women’s workforce participation is growing, true gender parity in earnings, career advancement, and household duties remains elusive,” said Dr. Vidya Mahambare, Professor of Economics and Director at Great Lakes Institute. She emphasized the importance of expanding employment opportunities, reforming childcare policies, and fostering societal change to address entrenched gender norms.

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