FALL AND RISE IN WOMEN’S WORK PARTICIPATION

Why in the news?

Fluctuations in women’s work participation rates spark debates on causes and call for diversifying opportunities beyond agriculture.

About Women’s Work Participation Trends:

  • Analysis of National Sample Surveys and Periodic Labour Force Surveys reveals fluctuations in women’s work participation rates.
  • Participation rates dipped from 42% in 1993-94 to 22% in 2017-18 but surged miraculously to 36% by 2022-23.
source:slideserve
What are the Government policies for women’s safety?

●   Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill, 2016: Provides 26 weeks of paid maternity leave for women in the organized sector.

●   Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017: Mandates crèche facilities in establishments with 50 or more workers.

●   Protection of Women against Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013: Defines sexual harassment and sets up mechanisms for complaint redressal, with safeguards against false charges.

●   Other laws like Equal Remuneration Act, 1976, and Factories (Amendment) Act, 1948, aim to ensure equality and fairness in women’s working conditions.