India News Today: Unemployment Rate Remains Unchanged at 3.2%

Unemployment Situation in India

The **unemployment rate** in India remains consistent at 3.2% for those aged 15 and over, according to the latest government data. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) reveals that the joblessness rate for women has increased from 2.9% to 3.2% in the past year. Meanwhile, the labour force participation rate (LFPR) for both women and men has reached a seven-year high, indicating some positive trends amidst economic concerns.

Gender Disparities in Employment

Despite improvements, **joblessness** continues to be a significant issue, particularly for women, indicating a disconnect in job creation efforts. The overall LFPR rose to 60.1%, with female participation improving to 41.7%, up from 37% the previous year.

Youth Unemployment Trends

• Youth unemployment (ages 15-29) increased to 10.2% in 2023-24 from 10% the prior year.
• Female youth unemployment rose from 10.6% to 11%, while male youth unemployment slightly inched up to 9.8%.

Government Initiatives

In response to rising unemployment, the government has introduced various measures in its budget for 2024-25, aimed at job creation including incentives for internships. The challenge remains to translate these initiatives into tangible outcomes for the job market.

Conclusion

As the PLFS continues to provide vital data on India's labour market, it is clear that while some progress has been made, many challenges, including joblessness in rural areas, persist. Continued monitoring and proactive measures are essential.