Daily Hot Topic
Topic : Women in India’s Unincorporated Sector (as per Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE)2022-23)
GS-1 Mains : Society
Key Facts & Figures:
- Share of Women Workers:
- Increased marginally from 25.52% (2021-22) to 25.63% (2022-23).
- Higher in Southern States (Telangana – 41%, Others >30%) and some Eastern States.
- Lower in Western, Northern & Central States.
- Women Proprietors:
- 54% of establishments in Manufacturing sector are female-owned.
Nature of Unincorporated Sector:
- Wide range of jobs – low to high skill, fixed locations to mobile work.
- Significant female workforce across various industries and activities.
Challenges Faced by Women:
- Unpaid Family Work: Women dominate this category across all states.
- Low Income: Skill gaps and weak bargaining power lead to low wages.
- Gender Pay Gap: Women earn less than men for similar work.
- Lack of Social Security: Limited access to health insurance, pensions etc.
- Informal Work: Absence of formal contracts increases vulnerability.
Government Initiatives:
- Skill Development Programs:
- Women’s ITIs, National Vocational Training Institutes, Regional Vocational Training Institutes.
- Skill India Mission for skill development and vocational training.
- National Skill Development Policy promoting women’s participation.
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Kendras for training and apprenticeship.
- Entrepreneurship Support:
- Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana for micro-loans.
- Stand Up India for loans to women entrepreneurs.
- Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme.
Conclusion:
- Women’s contribution to the unincorporated sector is significant.
- Empowering women is essential for economic justice and inclusive growth.
- Addressing issues like equal pay, safe working conditions, and access to education & training is crucial.
- Recognizing women’s contributions and tackling their challenges will create a more equitable and prosperous society.
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