More women join the labour force, but are they really employed?, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• The Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) in India increased from 31.2% in 2011-12 to 41.7% in 2023-24.
• Despite the rise in FLFPR, real earnings have declined for most categories of women workers, except casual workers.
• The increase in FLFPR is primarily driven by rural women, with a rise in their employment in agriculture.
• A significant portion of women's work is categorized as unpaid household labor or as 'helpers in household enterprises'.

Detailed Insights:

• The recent rise in FLFPR is largely attributed to rural women, but data indicates an increased share of women employed in agriculture, rising from 71.1% in 2018-19 to 76.9% in 2023-24.
• There has been a notable decrease in rural women reporting 'domestic duties', dropping from 57.8% in 2017-18 to 35.7% in 2023-24, with a corresponding increase in those counted as 'helpers in household enterprises'.
• The increase in self-employment among women has not translated into improved incomes, as real earnings for this category have declined.
• The classification of unpaid 'helper' roles as employment raises questions about the true nature of women's participation in the labor force and its impact on economic empowerment.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR): The percentage of women either employed or actively seeking employment in the labor force.
• Self-Employed: Individuals who work for themselves and are responsible for generating their income.
• Helpers in Household Enterprises: Individuals assisting in unpaid family work within household-run businesses.