Achieving 70% women’s workforce participation by 2047 is essential for India’s development, and the government is actively working to make this a reality, said Union Labour Secretary Sumita Dawra on Wednesday. Speaking at the ‘Women in Services Sector’ CII Dialogue 2025, Dawra emphasized that greater participation of women in the workforce could unlock immense economic potential and drive national growth.

She highlighted the significant progress women have made in India's economic landscape, noting that the labour force participation rate for women has increased from 23% in 2017-18 to around 42% in 2023-24. This growth spans various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services, with a rising number of educated women entering the workforce. However, Dawra acknowledged the challenges that persist, such as workplace biases, wage disparities, limited leadership opportunities, job security issues, and the struggle to balance professional and domestic responsibilities.

She stressed the importance of mentorship programs to prepare women for leadership roles and called for the creation of safe and inclusive workplaces. She also pointed to the potential of STEM fields, entrepreneurship, and startups in further increasing women’s participation in the economy.

“The Ministry of Labour and Employment has identified key action areas to boost women's workforce participation. Expanding affordable and quality care services is recognized as a crucial labour market enabler, and integrating care policies into employment frameworks is essential to supporting working women. Additionally, aligning skilling initiatives with industry demands is necessary to ensure women can access high-growth sectors,” she stated.

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