Source: Women, marriage and labour market participation; Editorial, The Hindu, 26-10-2023
Syllabus: Gs-1: Indian Society; Women and Women related issues. Gs-2; Governance: Government policies and welfare of weaker sections
Introduction:
- Women’s labour force participation is vital for economic progress and household decision-making.
- Claudia Goldin’s research has shed light on gender disparities in the labour market.
- Global female labour force participation rates remain relatively low.
- India has seen a decline in female labour force participation.
- Married women face unique challenges in entering or re-entering the labour market.
Factors Contributing to Low Female Labor Force Participation:
- Various individual and societal factors influence women’s labour market entry.
- Factors include religious and caste affiliations, geographic location, household wealth, and societal norms.
- Women from lower strata are often economically compelled to work, while those from upper strata tend to follow traditional domestic roles.
Data about FLFPR
| Year | Global Female LFPR | Female LFPR in India |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | – | 28% |
| 2022 | 47.3% | 24% |
This table shows the global and Indian female labour force participation rates in 1990 and 2022. It illustrates the decline in female LFPR in India during this period and the relatively low global participation rate for women in 2022.
Challenges for Married Women:
- After marriage, women’s labour force participation tends to decrease.
- Factors include limited educational attainment, increased family obligations, and societal disapproval.
- Marriage amplifies domestic obligations and cultural impediments to workforce participation.
Specific Challenges Faced by Married Women:
- Married women often seek jobs with flexibility and proximity to their homes.
- Gender asymmetry in professional costs leads to disparities in career choices and income.
- Data shows a decline in the female labour force participation rate among married women in India.
Solutions to Promote Female Labor Force Participation:
- Social and cultural elements significantly impact women’s labour market choices.
- The economic impact of married women’s non-participation in the Indian workforce is considerable.
- Solutions include improving day-care services, implementing the National Creche Scheme, and enhancing work settings for women.
- Providing secure transportation options and expanding part-time job opportunities can boost women’s labour market participation.
By addressing these challenges and implementing these solutions, India can promote women’s empowerment in a phase of high economic growth and enhance overall economic progress.