The government on Monday said that a series of welfare reforms, including maternity and childcare benefits and initiatives under Mission Shakti, have significantly boosted women’s participation in the workforce across India.
According to data released by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) rose from 23.3 per cent in 2017–18 to 41.7 per cent in 2023–24. Similarly, the Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for women aged 15 years and above increased from 22 per cent in 2017–18 to 40.3 per cent in 2023–24, showing a consistent upward trend.
The statement further noted that the monthly figures for 2025 indicate sustained momentum. The female WPR climbed to 32.0 per cent in August 2025, compared to 31.6 per cent in July and 30.2 per cent in June. The LFPR also saw a steady rise, reaching 33.7 per cent in August from 33.3 per cent in July and 32.0 per cent in June 2025.
Official data from the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) reflected similar progress in formal employment among women. During 2024–25, about 26.9 lakh net female subscribers were added to the EPFO. In July 2025 alone, 2.80 lakh new female subscribers joined, while net female payroll additions stood at 4.42 lakh, highlighting the growing inclusivity of India’s labour market.
The government attributed the rise in participation to a combination of legal protections and welfare schemes. Provisions ensuring maternity benefits, child welfare, equal pay, prevention of sexual harassment, and workplace security have encouraged more women to enter and remain in the workforce.
In addition, various Ministries have launched targeted employment and skill development initiatives designed to equip women with market-relevant skills and promote entrepreneurship. These programs are aimed at improving access to formal employment and creating pathways for economic independence.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development’s SHe-Box portal, which allows women to report workplace harassment, and Mission Shakti, which strengthens interventions for women’s safety, security, and empowerment, were cited as key enablers of this progress.
“Over the last decade, India has witnessed a significant transformation in women’s workforce participation,” the official statement noted. “With landmark reforms, enhanced maternity and childcare benefits, and initiatives like Mission Shakti, the government has laid a strong foundation for inclusive and supportive workplaces.”
The statement further added that as India advances toward its Viksit Bharat@2047 vision, empowering women at work remains central to the nation’s growth strategy. “By ensuring safe, equitable, and opportunity-rich workplaces, the country is unlocking the potential of half its population, paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive India,” it said.
The data underscores the growing formalisation of women’s employment and signals a shift toward gender-balanced participation in India’s labour economy.
