A recent paper authored by Cledwyn Fernandez, Havishaye Puri, and Shravani Prakash from ICRIER in New Delhi explores the gendered nature of digital access and its impact on female labor force participation in India. Using data from a survey conducted by the NSSO in 2020-21, the paper highlights the barriers women face in utilizing digital technology for employment opportunities.
The study found that access to mobile phones had different effects on female labor force participation rates (FLPR) in rural and urban areas. While increased mobile phone coverage in rural India contributed to higher FLPR, exclusive access to mobile phones only improved FLPR in urban areas. Additionally, the availability of internet at home in urban areas enhanced the impact of mobile phone use on women’s labor market participation.
Furthermore, the research showed that digital literacy played a crucial role in increasing FLPR, particularly in urban India. Based on these findings, the authors suggest various measures that governments, the private sector, and NGOs can implement collaboratively to improve women’s digital access and enhance their labor market participation.
The paper provides valuable insights into how digital access can influence female labor force participation and offers actionable steps for stakeholders to support women in leveraging technology for employment opportunities. The study’s findings underscore the importance of addressing gendered barriers to digital access to promote gender equality in India’s workforce.
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