The recent release of the 2022-23 Periodic Labour Force Survey Report on October 9, 2023, by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, carries promising news for women’s employment in India. It points to a notable uptick in the Female Labor Force Participation Rate, indicating that more women are either engaged in work or actively seeking employment.
In specific terms, the Female Labor Force Participation Rate has surged by 4.2 percentage points, reaching 37.0% in 2023. This increase serves as a positive indicator of the growing involvement of women in the workforce.
This achievement is a testament to various initiatives taken by the government to promote women’s participation in multiple spheres of life, contributing to their long-term socio-economic and political development:
- Girls’ Education: The government has initiated programs designed to encourage girls’ education, ensuring they have access to quality schooling. This approach equips them with knowledge and skills, strengthening their position in the workforce.
- Skill Development: Multiple skill development programs have been established to provide women with the necessary skills for improved job prospects, thus enhancing their employability.
- Entrepreneurship Support: The government has also implemented initiatives aimed at supporting women in becoming entrepreneurs and leaders in the business world, fostering economic independence and self-reliance.
- Workplace Safety: The enactment of policies and laws addressing workplace safety and issues of harassment has created a more supportive and secure environment for women in the workforce, ensuring a comfortable and empowering working atmosphere.
The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) is a critical economic indicator, signifying the percentage of the working-age population, typically between 15 to 64 years, who are either employed or actively seeking employment. A high LFPR is indicative of a healthy economy with ample job opportunities, making it an essential metric for assessing economic vitality.