India is setting an ambitious goal of achieving 70% female workforce participation by 2047 as part of its Viksit Bharat vision, said Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, at a recent CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) event. She emphasized that women’s economic engagement has surged from 23% in 2017-18 to approximately 42% in 2023-24, driven by growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Despite this progress, several barriers still hinder women's workforce participation, including workplace biases, wage disparities, job security issues, and limited leadership opportunities. To overcome these challenges, she underscored the importance of mentorship programs, skill development, and inclusive workplace policies that empower women.

Government Push for Women’s Workforce Inclusion

The Union Budget 2025-26 underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing female labor force participation, aligning with its long-term goal of 70% by 2047. The government is focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers, entrepreneurship, and startups as key areas for women’s professional growth.

To drive this transition, the government and private sector are collaborating on:

• Skill development programs to help women enter high-growth industries.
• Financial incentives for women-led startups and small businesses.
• Flexible work policies to promote better work-life balance.
• Mentorship and leadership initiatives to support career advancement.

Expanding Women’s Role in STEM and Entrepreneurship

Experts at the CII event highlighted STEM fields, entrepreneurship, and the startup ecosystem as game-changers for increasing women’s workforce participation. India is witnessing a rise in women-led ventures in technology, healthcare, finance, and sustainability, supported by government grants and private investments.

Additionally, women’s contributions to culture, fashion, and design were recognized as crucial economic drivers. Industry leaders called for stronger policies to support women in non-traditional industries, ensuring their access to capital, mentorship, and leadership roles.

Addressing Workplace Challenges

While women’s workforce participation is growing, several challenges still persist:

• Wage disparities between men and women in the same roles.
• Job security concerns, particularly in informal and gig economy jobs.
• Limited access to leadership positions, with fewer women in senior management.
• Workplace biases that hinder hiring and promotion opportunities.

Industry leaders at the event urged greater collaboration between the government and private sector to address these challenges. Key recommendations included:

• Strengthening maternity benefits and childcare support to retain female employees.
• Implementing gender diversity targets in corporate hiring and leadership.
• Encouraging remote and hybrid work models to accommodate working mothers.

Future of Women’s Employment in India

India’s goal of 70% female workforce participation by 2047 is ambitious but achievable with sustained efforts from both government and private enterprises. As India moves toward becoming a developed economy, ensuring women’s equal participation in the workforce will be crucial for economic growth and social progress.

By investing in education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive policies, India can create a workplace ecosystem that empowers women, ultimately contributing to its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

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