EMPOWERING WOMEN: THE KEYSTONE OF VIKSIT BHARAT'S ECONOMIC AMBITIONS

As India sets its sights on Viksit Bharat—a vision of becoming a developed and prosperous nation—one crucial factor could determine the success of this ambitious goal: the full and active participation of women in the workforce.

- SOURYABRATA MOHAPATRA & SURBHI MISHRA

Despite the nation’s significant growth since the economic liberalization reforms of 1991, the decline in female labour force participation (FLFP) is a troubling trend that could hinder the realization of Viksit Bharat. To achieve this vision, India must address the underutilization of its female talent urgently.

The statistics paint a concerning picture. Female labor force participation in India dropped from 31.2% in 2005 to just 20.3% in 2019, even as the economy expanded. This paradox threatens to derail India’s progress toward becoming a developed economy. Currently, India ranks 135th out of 146 countries in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, highlighting the significant work that remains to be done.

A key issue lies in the changing dynamics of India’s economy. Historically, agriculture has employed most women, but female employment in this sector saw an average annual decline of 2.23% between 2011 and 2018. Mechanization and urbanization have displaced women from agricultural roles, yet many have not transitioned to industrial jobs, moving directly into the service sector instead. While the service sector has provided some opportunities, it cannot absorb the large numbers of women exiting agriculture.