The increasing particiation of women workforce in different spheres of econony including manufacturing and services is a robust indicator of socioeconomic inclusion in India.
In this conext, women empowerment in Uttar Pradesh has moved from vision to reality under the proactive policies pursued by the Yogi Adityanath government.
In recent years, there has been a remarkable increase in female participation across sectors, especially in construction, industry and services.
Women now represent almost 35% of the workforce in the construction sector, while 53% of workers in the unorganised sector are women, as registered on the e-Shram portal.
Additionally, more than 183,000 women are employed in registered factories, marking a significant stride toward inclusive and gender-balanced economic growth in UP>
The Yogi government has rolled out several progressive policies to further enhance employment opportunities for women.
Under the Factories Act, women are now allowed to work night shifts, leading to increased efficiency.
A new proposal also permits conditional work in areas previously restricted for women.
Furthermore, the permission to work 24×7 in shops and commercial establishments has provided additional employment opportunities with flexible working hours.
The most significant step taken is the implementation of the ‘equal pay for equal work’ policy, which promotes gender equality by ensuring women receive the same pay as their male counterparts, thereby reducing workplace discrimination.
These reforms have not only contributed to the economic independence of women but have boosted their confidence and self-worth.
Yogi has consistently advocated for greater economic participation of women, stating, “Women are the backbone of society. Increasing their economic participation is not just a matter of social justice, but a necessity for the overall development of the state and the nation.”
As a result, UP women have gained access to new avenues of employment, enhancing both their social and economic standing.
The Yogi government is not only empowering women in the workplace but are also fostering the values of gender equality and inclusivity across society.
This marks the beginning of a new era in UP, where women, constituting half of the population, are set to realise their dreams and contribute to the state’s progress, a government official remarked.