The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 and above was 59.3% in 2025, consistent with 2024 figures. In 2025, LFPR for males was 79.1%, while for females, it was 40.0%. The worker population ratio (WPR) in 2025 was 57.4%, similar to the previous year’s data, with male WPR at 76.6% and female WPR at 38.8%.
Unemployment among urban females decreased from 6.7% in 2024 to 6.4% in 2025. The percentage of workers in regular wage/salaried jobs rose to 23.6% in 2025, up from 22.4% in 2024. Rural male LFPR remained high at 80.5%, while rural female LFPR stayed steady at 45.9%, maintaining previous gains.
Female unemployment was lower at 2.1% compared to male unemployment at 2.6% in rural areas. In urban areas, male and female unemployment rates decreased to 4.2% and 6.4%, respectively. Both male and female LFPR in urban areas in 2025 were similar to 2024 levels.
The WPR in 2025 was relatively stable compared to 2024. Rural male WPR was strong at 78.4%, and rural female WPR was steady at 44.9%, continuing gains from previous years. Urban WPR remained around 50.0%. Among males not in the labor force, many cited a desire to continue studies, while females often mentioned child care/personal commitments as reasons.
Individuals with higher education levels showed higher workforce participation rates. Urban self-employed males worked more hours per week than females, with a similar trend in rural areas. In regular wage/salaried employment and casual labor, males worked more hours per week than females.
