What are the key factors that affect women's participation in the workforce in India

The central government has initiated a survey to evaluate the level of women's participation in the workforce.
Several key factors affect women's participation in the workforce in India. These factors can be summarized as follows:
  • Sociocultural Factors: Deep-rooted social norms and cultural traditions often dictate that women should primarily focus on household duties and child-rearing, leading to limited opportunities for employment outside the home.
  • Education and Skills Gap: Unequal access to educational opportunities and limited skill development for women hinder their ability to enter and thrive in the workforce.
  • Limited Job Opportunities: Structural barriers and gender-based discrimination result in limited job opportunities for women, particularly in certain sectors and higher-level positions.
  • Gender Wage Gap: Women in India consistently face lower wages than their male counterparts, influencing their decision to participate in the workforce and limiting their economic independence.
  • Lack of Safe Workspaces: Safety concerns and lack of adequate infrastructure, especially in public transport and workplaces, discourage women's participation, particularly in urban areas.
The survey initiated by the central government aims to evaluate the existing level of women's participation in the workforce to inform policies and interventions that address these key factors and promote greater gender equality and women's empowerment in the Indian workforce.
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