Encouraging news from India’s labor front: unemployment for ages 15 and over eased in October-December 2025. The Ministry of Statistics reported a nationwide rate reduction, with rural figures dropping to 4 percent from 4.4 percent—affected positively for men and women alike. Urban unemployment slipped to 6.7 percent from 6.9 percent, propelled by men’s rate falling from 6.2 percent to 5.9 percent.
Overall LFPR advanced to 55.8 percent, surpassing the prior 55.1 percent, evidencing broader workforce involvement. A standout was women’s LFPR (ages 5+), climbing to 34.9 percent from 33.7 percent, potentially fueled by rural opportunities and policy nudges.
WPR strengthened to 53.1 percent from 52.2 percent, with rural steadiness across demographics. Self-employment gained traction everywhere—63.2 percent in rural areas (up from 62.8 percent) and 39.7 percent urban (from 39.3 percent). Farming dominated rural hires at 58.5 percent, higher than 57.7 percent before.
As India navigates growth hurdles, these metrics offer optimism. The uptick in participation and self-reliance highlights adaptive employment patterns. Looking ahead, bridging urban-rural gaps and formalizing jobs will be key to long-term stability.