Socio-Economic Status Of Working Women In Satara City (Maharashtra)

This study examines the socio-economic status (SES) of working women in Satara city, Maharashtra, focusing on three distinct occupational sectors: household industry, other unorganized sectors, and organized sectors. Using primary data collected from 150 respondents through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using the Kuppuswamy SES classification model, the study highlights disparities in women’s socio-economic conditions. The findings reveal that women employed in organized sectors predominantly belong to upper middle and upper classes, with higher education, income, and better access to resources. Conversely, women working in household industries and unorganized sectors largely fall within the lower middle class, reflecting limited access to education, healthcare, and financial opportunities. The study also explores the influence of caste, religion, and educational attainment on occupational placement, showing that women from marginalized communities are overrepresented in low-skill, low-income occupations. Income levels were strongly correlated with SES, indicating that women from higher SES backgrounds earn significantly more and tend to work in organized sectors, driven by career aspirations and economic independence. In contrast, women from lower SES groups often work out of necessity to meet basic family needs. The research underscores the need for targeted interventions to enhance educational and employment opportunities for women in unorganized sectors, aiming to reduce socio-economic disparities and promote equitable development.