Question

Analyse the main features of the composition of working population in India.

Hint:

Consider the shift from traditional agriculture to modern sectors and its impact on employment and economic structure in India.

Answer 1

The composition of the working population in India can be analyzed based on the following features:
- Agricultural Workforce: A significant proportion of India's working population is engaged in agriculture, particularly in rural areas. Agriculture accounts for around 50\% of the total workforce. However, this sector is gradually declining due to mechanization and urban migration.
- Informal Sector: A large section of India’s working population is employed in the informal or unorganized sector. This includes workers in small shops, construction, and domestic work, where job security and social benefits are minimal.
- Industrial and Service Sectors: With economic growth, there has been a shift from agriculture to industry and services. The industrial sector employs around 30\% of the workforce, while the service sector is growing rapidly, with sectors such as information technology, finance, and telecommunications offering new employment opportunities.
- Gender Disparity: The participation of women in the workforce is lower compared to men, and much of it is concentrated in low-paying and informal jobs. Gender inequality remains a major challenge in improving the overall composition of the workforce.
- Youth Employment: The working population in India has a significant proportion of young people, with a large number of them seeking employment in urban areas. However, the youth unemployment rate remains a challenge.
The composition of India’s working population reflects the ongoing transition from an agrarian to an industrial and service-based economy, with challenges related to employment quality and equity.