Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
Women's empowerment and their economic participation are central to India's development goals. Understanding the barriers and policy solutions, especially the role of social infrastructure, is vital for designing effective welfare schemes and promoting inclusive growth and gender equality.
Women's labor force participation is a critical indicator of gender equality and economic development. However, in many developing countries, including India, it remains low due to societal norms, lack of adequate social infrastructure, and the burden of unpaid care work, which hinders women's entry and retention in the workforce.