Problems of working women in India -A sociological study

Abstract women are main work force in India. In recent decades, India has witnessed a significant rise in the participation of women in various sectors of the workforce, ranking from education, healthcare, and technology to manufacturing, service and industries. This growing presence of women in the professional sphere reflects the country’s socio-economic transformation and the increasing recognition of women’s potential in nation-building. However, despite this progress, working women in India continue to face a wide range of issues and challenges deep rooted social, cultural, and structural inequalities. The traditional gender roles, patriarchal attitudes, and inadequate institutional support systems often create a double burden for women, who are expected to excel in their careers while fulfilling domestic and care giving responsibilities. Not only that they are facing issues such as gender discrimination, unequal pay, workplace harassment, safety concerns, and lack of family support continue to hinder their professional advancement and well-being. Indian society urge, the women must simultaneously fulfil the demands of their careers and the duties of home-making, without adequate social or familial support. In work situation women frequently encounter the gender pay gap, occupational segregation, limited access to leadership positions, and the “glass ceiling” effect, Sexual harassment, lack of safety during commuting, inadequate maternity and childcare facilities, and informal employment without job security further intensify their struggles.From a sociological point of view, these problems are not merely individual experiences but are embedded in the structural and cultural fabric of Indian society. This study seeks to explore the multifaceted problems faced by working women in India, their implications for social change and development. However, the journey of working women is often marked by multiple challenges that are deeply rooted in social structures, cultural norms, and gendered expectations. These problems stem from the interplay of traditional patriarchy, unequal access to resources, and persistent gender role stereotypes. This study examines the problems faced by working women in India through a sociological lens, focusing on the influence of patriarchy, gender role expectations, and systemic discrimination. Despite women continue work with physical, emotional, and social strain.