RAS question
As per the Economic Survey 2025-26, what is the current Female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in India, which has nearly doubled from its earlier figure?
Correct answer: (D) 42%.
India's Female Labour Force Participation Rate is about 42 per cent, nearly double the 23.3 per cent recorded in 2017-18.
Explanation
Option D is right because the cited Economic Survey chapter records a clear rise in India's female labour force participation. Its box on enhancing female labour force participation states that FLFPR increased from 23.3 per cent in 2017-18 to 41.7 per cent in 2023-24, while unemployment declined from 5.6 per cent to 3.2 per cent. The MCQ rounds 41.7 per cent to 42 per cent, which is why 42 per cent is the only option that matches the Survey-backed trend. The broader employment overview in the same chapter also notes substantial employment levels, including 56.2 crore people aged 15 years and above employed in Q2 FY26.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) 28 per cent is too low and does not match the Survey's 41.7 per cent FLFPR figure rounded to 42 per cent.
- (B) 35 per cent understates the recorded rise; the cited Survey places FLFPR at 41.7 per cent, not in the mid-thirties.
- (C) 50 per cent overstates the Survey figure, which is 41.7 per cent and is therefore represented by 42 per cent among the options.
Concept
This tests labour-market indicators in the Indian Economy syllabus, especially LFPR, unemployment and gendered employment trends. It recurs in RAS because Economic Survey data often becomes the factual base for questions on inclusive growth and employment.