India's Urban Unemployment Rate fell to 6.4% in July-September 2024

India's urban unemployment rate fell to 6.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter, the lowest in recent years. This marks a decline from 6.6% in the previous quarter and matches the rate from the same period last year. The reduction highlights positive employment trends in urban areas, reflecting advancements in job creation and increased labor force participation.

Urban Unemployment Rate in India

The urban unemployment rate in India declined to 6.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter, marking the lowest level recorded in recent years. This reflects a steady improvement compared to the previous quarter, where the rate stood at 6.6%. It also aligns with the rate observed during the same period last year (July-September 2023). This consistent reduction highlights positive trends in employment generation within urban areas and signifies progress in addressing joblessness.

Unemployment Rate in India among Men and Women

A gender-specific breakdown shows a decline in unemployment for both men and women. The unemployment rate for men decreased to 5.7% in the July-September 2024 quarter, compared to 5.8% in the preceding quarter. Similarly, women’s unemployment rate fell significantly, dropping to 8.4% from 9% in April-June 2024. This reduction underscores advancements in workforce engagement, particularly among women, though disparities between genders remain.

Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)

The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), which measures the proportion of the working-age population either employed or actively seeking work, rose to 50.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter from 50.1% in the previous quarter. Women’s LFPR experienced a modest increase, reaching 25.5% compared to 25.2% in April-June 2024. While the overall rise is encouraging, the persistent gap between male and female participation highlights the need for targeted efforts to enhance women’s involvement in the workforce.

Worker Population Rate (WPR) in Urban Areas

The Worker Population Rate (WPR) for individuals aged 15 and above stood at 47.2% in the July-September 2024 quarter. For men, the WPR was notably higher at 70.7%, while for women, it was significantly lower at 23.4%. This stark gender disparity underscores the unequal distribution of employment opportunities and highlights the need for gender-specific policy interventions to boost women's workforce representation.

Unemployment Rate in India Key Terms 

Following are the key terms discussed while discussing unemployment Rate in India: 

• Unemployment Rate: The percentage of unemployed individuals within the labor force.
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): The proportion of the working-age population that is either employed or actively seeking employment.
• Worker Population Rate (WPR): The percentage of individuals aged 15 and above who are employed or actively seeking work.

Conclusion

The decline in the urban unemployment rate and the steady increase in labor force participation signal positive employment trends in India. However, the persistent gender disparity in both LFPR and WPR indicates areas that require focused attention. Women’s participation remains significantly lower than men’s, highlighting the need for labor market reforms, skill development initiatives, and policies aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce. These measures can support sustained employment growth and improve the overall economic landscape.

India’s Unemployment Rate FAQs

Q1. What is the current unemployment rate in India?

Ans. Current unemployment rate in India is 6.4%.

Q2. Why is India's unemployment rate high?

Ans. India’s unemployment rate is high due to slow economic growth, large population and lack of job opportunities.

Q3. What is the unemployment rate in Nsso 2024?

Ans. Unemployment rate in NSSO 2024 is 6.4% in urban areas.

Q4. What is the unemployment percentage in India in 2024? 

Ans. Unemployment percentage in India in 2024 is 7.8% (as of September 2024).

Q5. Which state has the highest unemployment rate in 2024?

Ans. State with highest unemployment rate in 2024 is Jammu & Kashmir (32%)