India, Sept. 21 -- There are some encouraging signs. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24 reports a rise in the female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) to 41.7%, up from 37% the previous year. Whilst this upward trend signals growing inclusion, it also highlights the distance we must travel to achieve true gender parity and social equity.

Despite these gains, India continues to grapple with deep-rooted structural, cultural and societal barriers. The World Economic Forum's Gender Gap Report 2024 ranks India 127th out of 146 countries in economic participation and opportunity for women-a reminder that progress is not just about GDP numbers. True development must address the economic, social and cultural factors that hold ...