Women and work: a regional perspective from Gujarat, India

Kumar, Hemant (2015): Women and work: a regional perspective from Gujarat, India.

Abstract

This study examines rural women's workforce participation in Gujarat during the post-liberalization period, analysing trends and determinants using data from the 50th, 55th, and 68th rounds of the National Sample Survey (NSS). Employing quantitative methods, including logistic regression, it assesses the impact of socio-economic and demographic factors on labour market engagement. Findings indicate a decline in female workforce participation between 1993-94 and 2011-12, despite economic growth. Rural women remain largely confined to low-paying agricultural labour, with limited transition to the secondary and tertiary sectors. Education inversely affects participation, reflecting inadequate employment opportunities for educated women. Social and economic factors such as caste and land ownership influence workforce engagement. The study concludes that structural barriers hinder rural women's employment despite economic liberalisation. Policy measures focused on education, skill development, and non-agricultural job opportunities are essential to enhance their workforce participation and economic empowerment.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Rural women, workforce participation, economic liberalisation, labour market, Gujarat
• Subjects: J - Labor and Demographic Economics > J7 - Labor Discrimination > J78 - Public Policy

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