Time Use Survey 2024: Shifting Patterns in Indian Workforce Participation

The 2024 Time Use Survey revealed notable shifts in workforce participation, with increased male and female involvement in employment. While more women moved from unpaid to paid activities, gender disparities in caregiving persist. Survey data highlight changes in activity patterns across various demographics in India.

A recent government survey has revealed that the participation of Indian males and females in employment-related activities has increased since 2019. Conducted by the National Statistics Office, the survey found male participation rose to 75 percent and female participation to 25 percent in the age group 15-59 years.

The Time Use Survey, initially conducted in 2019, offers a detailed framework for assessing how people allocate their time. In 2024, the survey highlighted that women are progressively shifting from unpaid domestic services to paid work, although they still predominantly shoulder caregiving responsibilities.

The data, gathered via computer-assisted interviews from over 4 lakh individuals, underscores changing activity patterns, including increased participation in educational activities among children and a higher engagement in culture and leisure pursuits across all age groups.

(With inputs from agencies.)