Introduction:

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The dynamics of female labor force participation in India have witnessed significant transformations, particularly in rural regions, as highlighted in the 'Indian Economy — A Review' by the Department of Economic Affairs in 2024. This review underscores a notable upsurge in the female labor force participation rate (FLFPR) over the past six years, with rural areas experiencing a remarkable surge. Alongside this surge, there has been a parallel increase in self-employment and engagement in agricultural activities among rural women, signaling a shift in traditional labor patterns. This introduction sets the stage for exploring the multifaceted initiatives and programs driving these changes and their implications for women's economic empowerment in India

Body:

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In discussing the topic, consider the following points:

The 'Indian Economy — A Review' by the Department of Economic Affairs in 2024 underscores the notable increase in the female labor force participation rate (FLFPR) in rural India over the past six years.

According to the report, while urban FLFPR has been on the rise, the surge in rural FLFPR has been particularly significant. This growth in rural female FLFPR has paralleled a rise in self-employment and agricultural activities among working women, both of which warrant further examination.

In rural areas, the FLFPR has surged from 24.6% in 2017-18 to 41.5% in 2022-23, whereas in urban areas, it has climbed from 20.4% to 25.4% during the same period.

Approximately 9.96 crore women across the country are covered by the mission, with over 90 lakh Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the DAY-NRLM accessing Rs 38,892 crore as capitalization support.

Evaluation studies conducted by the Institute of Rural Management, Anand (2018) under Pramod Kumar Singh and the Stanford University team under Anjini Kochar (2020) affirmed nearly a 20% increase in household incomes for those covered by the mission, along with a maturation period of 6-8 years for newly formed SHGs.

In 2016, the MGNREGS began adopting a 60:40 unskilled labor to material ratio at the district level and promoted individual beneficiary income-generating initiatives like animal barns, agricultural ponds, and vermicomposting.

The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awas Yojana, which is predominantly in the woman’s name in over 70% of cases, has resulted in more women gaining employment in MGNREGS through the ninety days of labor it provides.

Despite the majority of agricultural land being owned by men, women's contributions in farming are significant, with women tending to more than half of the land. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) initiated under the DAY-NRLM in 2011 aims to enhance skill sets through Community Resource Persons like Krishi Sakhi and Pashu Sakhi.

Conclusion:

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MGNREGS ensures equal wages for men and women, with its wage rates serving as the benchmark in numerous states. Elevating MGNREGS wage rates, coupled with increased productivity, can serve as an effective means to uphold the dignity of the poor and elevate their skill levels.

The DAY-NRLM and MGNREGS play pivotal roles in augmenting the female labor force participation rate, underlining their significance in advancing economic empowerment and inclusivity

Other Points to Consider

DAY-NRLM

MGNREGS

Deendayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)