FICCI Summit Focuses on Boosting Women's Workforce Participation
The 2nd FICCI Women in the Workforce Summit and Awards highlighted strategies to increase women's participation and leadership in the Indian workforce.
Photo by Edwin Petrus
Quick Revision
The 2nd FICCI Women in the Workforce Summit and Awards was held.
Focused on women's participation and leadership in the workforce.
Part of FICCI's pre-AGM events.
Key Numbers
Visual Insights
Exam Angles
Social Issues: Gender equality, women empowerment, societal biases, unpaid care work, safety concerns.
Economy: Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), GDP growth, informal economy, skill development, demographic dividend.
Governance & Policy: Constitutional provisions, labour laws, government schemes for women, role of industry associations.
International Relations: SDG 5 (Gender Equality), ILO conventions related to women's work.
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Summary
FICCI recently hosted its 2nd Women in the Workforce Summit and Awards, an event dedicated to exploring ways to enhance women's participation and leadership roles in India's workforce. What's the significance here? It underscores the growing recognition that empowering women economically is not just a social justice issue but also a crucial driver for national economic growth.
The summit likely discussed various challenges women face, such as gender pay gaps, lack of flexible work options, safety concerns, and societal biases, and explored solutions like skill development, mentorship programs, and policy reforms. By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts, such platforms aim to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment, ultimately contributing to India's overall development and demographic dividend.
Background
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Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding women's participation in India's workforce: 1. The recent FICCI Summit highlighted that enhancing women's economic empowerment is crucial for achieving national economic growth. 2. India's female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) has consistently been among the highest globally for developing economies. 3. Flexible work options and skill development programs are considered key strategies to boost women's engagement in the formal sector. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is correct, as the news summary explicitly states that empowering women economically is a crucial driver for national economic growth. Statement 2 is incorrect; India's FLFPR has historically been low and has seen fluctuations, often declining, and is not among the highest globally for developing economies. Statement 3 is correct, as the summit likely explored solutions like skill development and flexible work options to create a more inclusive work environment, as mentioned in the news summary.
2. With reference to the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of women in India, consider the following statements: 1. The LFPR for women in rural areas is generally higher than that in urban areas. 2. The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) conducts periodic surveys to estimate LFPR in India. 3. A significant portion of women's employment in India is concentrated in the informal sector, often characterized by low wages and lack of social security. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
Statement 1 is correct. Data from various surveys, including the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by NSO, consistently show that female LFPR in rural areas is higher than in urban areas, largely due to agricultural work and other informal activities. Statement 2 is correct. The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), now part of the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, conducts the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) to estimate LFPR and other employment indicators. Statement 3 is correct. A substantial majority of women workers in India are engaged in the informal sector, which lacks formal contracts, social security benefits, and often offers lower wages, contributing to vulnerability.
3. Which of the following constitutional provisions and legislative measures are directly aimed at promoting gender equality and women's participation in the workforce in India? 1. Article 39(d) of the Constitution of India 2. The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 3. The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976 4. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1, 2 and 3 only
- B.2, 3 and 4 only
- C.1 and 4 only
- D.1, 2, 3 and 4
Show Answer
Answer: D
All the listed provisions and acts are directly aimed at promoting gender equality and facilitating women's participation in the workforce. Article 39(d) is a Directive Principle of State Policy that mandates 'equal pay for equal work for both men and women'. The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (amended in 2017) provides for maternity leave and other benefits, enabling women to balance work and family responsibilities. The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976, ensures that men and women receive equal remuneration for work of a similar nature and prevents discrimination in employment. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, aims to provide a safe working environment, which is crucial for women's sustained participation.