Gujarat Shines for Men, Lags for Women in Employment: India Employment Report 2024

Ahmedabad : The recently released India Employment Report 2024 paints a mixed picture for Gujarat’s workforce. While the state boasts the third-highest employment rate for men and the lowest unemployment rate among educated youth in the country, female employment and overall worker participation lag behind national averages.

Published jointly by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Institute for Human Development, the report utilizes 2022 data to create an Employment Status Index. Gujarat ranks a respectable fifth overall, a significant improvement from its tenth place finish in 2012. Delhi takes the top spot in the 2024 rankings.

Strong Showing for Men, Lower Rates for Women

A key takeaway is the stark difference between male and female employment in Gujarat. The state secures the third position for male employment but falls to thirteenth when considering female employment. This gender disparity is further reflected in the workforce participation rate, where 78% of men participate compared to just 28% of women, placing Gujarat at seventh nationally.

Regular Jobs and Incomes

The report also delves into the nature of employment. While Delhi boasts the highest percentage of regular salaried jobs (29.10%), Gujarat sits at twelfth with 10.44% of its workforce in regular employment. However, Gujarat finds some solace in the average monthly income of casual workers, which stands at Rs 7,354, a decent figure compared to other states.

Educated Youth: A Beacon of Hope

One bright spot for Gujarat is its success in tackling educated youth unemployment. The report highlights a national low of 10.66% unemployment among educated youth (aged 15-29) in Gujarat. This accomplishment stands in stark contrast to Odisha, which struggles with a staggering 39.95% unemployment rate in the same age group.

However, a concerning trend emerges within this age bracket. While 30% of young people in Gujarat are not actively employed, in education, or undergoing training, the proportion is significantly higher for women. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve female participation in the workforce.

Looking Ahead

Gujarat’s improvement in the Employment Status Index is commendable. However, addressing the gender gap and increasing female workforce participation are crucial for the state’s continued economic growth. Additionally, focusing on skilling and training programs, particularly for young women, can equip them with the tools needed to thrive in the job market. By tackling these challenges, Gujarat can leverage its strong male employment base and create a truly inclusive and prosperous workforce.