Economic Participation and Gender Disparities: Evidence from Labour Force Indicators Across Social Groups in India

Abstract

This paper examines gender disparities in economic participation across major social groups in India-ST, SC, OBC, and Others-using NSSO and PLFS data from 2004–05 to 2021–22. By analyzingLabour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Work Participation Rate (WPR), and unemployment rates for men and women, the study highlights persistent gender gaps and widening inequalities among social groups. The results show that women consistently record lower participation and higher unemployment, with the gap most visible among OBC and Other social groups. Despite overall economic growth, improvements in female participation remain uneven and slow. The findings underline the need for targeted policies addressing intersectional disadvantages related to both gender and social identity.