FLFPR Rises to 41.7% in 2023-24, Led by Rural Women
Why in the news
Women’s participation in work rebounded strongly by 2023-24, but earnings stayed weak.
Key facts
- FLFPR: women aged 15+ working or seeking work.
- Trend: 31.2% in 2011-12, 23.3% in 2017-18, 41.7% in 2023-24.
- Real earnings fell for most women; only casual workers were an exception.
Shift in activity status
| Category | Earlier | 2023-24 |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic duties | 57.8% (2017-18) | 35.7% |
| Helpers in household enterprises | 9.1% | 19.6% |
| Own account workers / employers | 4.5% | 14.6% |
Concerns
- Helpers in household enterprises are often unpaid or poorly paid, so the line between work and household chores blurs.
- Even self-employed women saw falling real earnings.
- Higher participation does not automatically mean better-paid or secure jobs.
Exam angle
- Low point: 23.3% in 2017-18; latest: 41.7% in 2023-24.
- Growth is in self-employment, not wage jobs.