Women in the Economy: Rising Participation, Low Leadership  

Why in the News?

• Female participation in India’s workforce is rising, but representation in leadership roles remains low, raising concerns for inclusive growth.

Key Trends

Rising Female Labour Force Participation (LFPR)

• Female LFPR:
  • 2022: 33.9%
  • 2025: 40%
• Still below:
  • Global average: 49%
  • Brazil: 53%
  • Vietnam: 69%

Why Female Participation Matters

• According to the World Bank: India needs ~8% growth to become developed by 2047
• Low female participation: Major constraint to growth

Economic Impact

• Study (2018): Constituencies with women legislators: +1.8% higher economic performance

Women in Leadership (Major Concern)

1. Academia

• IITs: Female faculty ~14%
• IIMs: Range: 19% to 31%
• Professors (India overall): ~29.5%

2. Business & Corporate Sector

• Female-owned establishments: ~27%
• Women in leadership roles: Only 13 women per 100 men

3. Corporate Boards

• Many firms: Only 1–2 women directors
• Women board chairpersons:
  • BSE 200: ~7%
  • NSE 500: ~5%
• Indicates token representation

Note: 

• The BSE 200 is a stock market index on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in India, comprising 200 of the largest, most liquid, and highly traded companies across various sectors.
• The Nifty 500 is a broad-based stock market index representing the top 500 companies listed on the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) based on market capitalization and average daily turnover.