From Constraints to Opportunities: Rural Women in India's Labour Force

The participation of women in the labour force is a critical indicator of social progress and economic development. In India, rural female labour force participation rate (RFLFPR) has witnessed a remarkable rise, nearly doubling from 18.2 percent in 2017 to 35.5 percent in 2023, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). Despite this progress, rural women continue to face multiple barriers such as socio-cultural norms, limited access to education and technical skills, household responsibilities, and lack of social protection. Factors such as age, marital status, caste, income level, and male migration also significantly influence their participation. The persistence of unpaid care work, safety concerns, and the digital divide further restrict women’s access to productive employment. However, government initiatives like MGNREGA, NRLM, Skill India, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Maternity Benefit Act, and Namo Drone Didi provide important opportunities to enhance women’s empowerment and expand livelihood options. Addressing structural challenges and creating enabling conditions for women’s economic engagement is essential for sustainable development. This paper highlights the drivers, challenges, and opportunities associated with RFLFPR, emphasizing the need for policy interventions and institutional support to harness the full potential of women’s contribution to rural economies.