Abstract

A nation`s level of economics activity is significantly influenced by the size of its workforce. Considering that women make up half of the nation`s population, their involvement in economic activities is essential. Women`s participation in the workforce not only influences economic development but it also has an impact on their lives in terms of opportunities and benefits. In this context, this paper aims to provide an overview of women`s (age 15 and above) participation in workforce in India. This paper examines the trends and patterns of women unemployment and Women Worker Population Ratio from 2015-16 to 2023-24 in India. The main finding of this paper is that, WWPR is much lower than its male counterparts i.e., 76.3 percent for males and 40.3 percent for females in 2023-24. Additionally, this paper provides an in-depth evaluation of the significant initiatives, the government has implemented to reduce unemployment rates in India. In last, our paper raises the concern about women`s falling workforce participation and makes policy recommendations for boosting productive employment and decreasing women unemployment. Secondary sources of data were used in this study, obtained from National Sample Survey Organization and annual Periodic Labour Force Survey for the year 2015-16 to 2023-24.