How Have Maternity and Childcare Benefits and Mission Shakti Boosted Women's Workforce Participation?
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Synopsis
Discover how impactful reforms like maternity and childcare benefits, along with the Mission Shakti initiative, have catalyzed the rise of women's workforce participation in India. This article delves into the statistics and government efforts shaping a more inclusive future.
Key Takeaways
- Women's Labour Force Participation Rate increased from 23.3% to 41.7% from 2017-2024.
- Mission Shakti enhances women's safety and empowerment.
- Legal provisions support maternity benefits and prevent sexual harassment.
- 26.9 lakh new female subscribers joined EPFO in 2024-25.
- Skill development initiatives are enhancing women's economic independence.
New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) A series of reforms, including maternity and childcare benefits and the Mission Shakti initiative, have significantly contributed to the rising participation of women in the workforce in India, as reported by the government on Monday.
Data from the Ministry of Labour and Employment reveals that the female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) surged from 23.3 percent in 2017-18 to 41.7 percent in 2023-24.
Moreover, the Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for women aged 15 and over climbed from 22 percent in 2017-18 to 40.3 percent in 2023-24. The LFPR saw a remarkable increase from 23.3 percent to 41.7 percent.
According to an official statement, “Recently, the female WPR improved to 32.0 percent in August 2025, up from 31.6 percent in July 2025 and 30.2 percent in June 2025. The female LFPR also rose to 33.7 percent in August 2025 from 33.3 percent in July 2025 and 32.0 percent in June 2025.”
The latest payroll figures from the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) reflect the growing trend of formal employment among women.
“In the period of 2024-25, 26.9 lakh net female subscribers were added to EPFO. In July 2025, approximately 2.80 lakh new female subscribers joined, with the net female payroll addition reaching around 4.42 lakh, showcasing a more inclusive and diverse workforce,” an official statement highlighted.
The government emphasized that various legal provisions, including the safeguarding of maternity benefits, prevention of sexual harassment, ensuring equal pay, and enhancing security have been pivotal in boosting women's participation rates.
Additionally, a multitude of employment and skill development programs across different ministries are designed to bolster women’s engagement in the workforce, equipping them with relevant skills, entrepreneurial chances, and pathways towards economic independence.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development’s online SHe-Box portal aims to combat sexual harassment in workplaces, while Mission Shakti focuses on strengthening measures for women's safety, security, and empowerment.
“Over the past decade, India is experiencing a remarkable transformation in women’s participation in the workforce. With groundbreaking reforms, expanded skill development, improved maternity and childcare benefits, and initiatives like Mission Shakti, the government has laid a robust foundation for inclusive and supportive work environments,” the statement concluded.
“As India progresses towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat@2047, empowering women in the workplace is not merely a priority; it is a defining factor of national advancement. By ensuring safe, fair, and opportunity-laden workplaces, the nation is unlocking the potential of half its population, paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive India,” it added.
Point of View
I firmly believe that the government's efforts in enhancing the participation of women in the workforce reflect a commitment to national progress. The data clearly illustrates that reforms like maternity benefits and initiatives such as Mission Shakti are pivotal in shaping a more inclusive society. It’s a step towards recognizing the vital role women play in economic development, ensuring a balanced and thriving workforce for the nation's future.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact have maternity benefits had on women's workforce participation?
Maternity benefits have significantly enhanced women's workforce participation by providing essential support during and after pregnancy, encouraging more women to join and remain in the workforce.
How does Mission Shakti contribute to women's empowerment?
Mission Shakti empowers women by implementing safety measures, promoting economic independence, and providing skills training, thus fostering a more inclusive work environment.
What are the recent statistics regarding women's Labour Force Participation Rate?
The female Labour Force Participation Rate rose from 23.3 percent in 2017-18 to 41.7 percent in 2023-24, demonstrating significant progress in women's employment.
What role does the SHe-Box portal play?
The SHe-Box portal serves as a platform for women to report incidents of sexual harassment at the workplace, promoting a safer working environment.
Why is women's empowerment in the workforce crucial for national progress?
Empowering women in the workforce is essential for national progress as it unlocks the potential of half the population, driving economic growth and social development.
