Women’s unpaid labour forms the backbone of India’s economy—yet it remains largely invisible in economic data and policy discussions. From household work to caregiving, women contribute significantly without financial compensation.
On average, women in India spend 5–7 hours per day on unpaid work, compared to 2–3 hours for men. This includes cooking, cleaning, childcare, and eldercare.
Unpaid Labour Breakdown
| Category | Women’s Time | Men’s Time | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic work | ~5 hrs/day | ~1.5 hrs/day | ₹12–15 lakh crore |
| Care work | ~2 hrs/day | ~1 hr/day | ₹8–10 lakh crore |
| Total | ~7 hrs/day | ~2.5 hrs/day | ₹20–25 lakh crore |
This unpaid labour is estimated to be worth ₹20–25 lakh crore, equivalent to 15–17% of India’s GDP. Despite this massive contribution, it is not formally recognized in economic calculations.
Women perform over 80% of total unpaid work, creating what is known as “time poverty.” This limits their ability to pursue education, employment, and skill development.
The impact begins early. Girls are often expected to assist with household responsibilities, which can lead to:
- School absenteeism
- Early dropout
- Limited higher education
This creates a cycle where lack of education leads to limited employment opportunities, reinforcing economic dependence.
From a policy perspective, addressing unpaid labour requires:
- Better access to childcare
- Redistribution of household responsibilities
- Recognition of care work in economic frameworks
Conclusion
Unpaid labour is not just a gender issue—it is an economic issue. Recognising and redistributing this work is essential for achieving gender equality and sustainable growth.