'Career, Not Marriage Top Priority For Young Indian Women', Says UNICEF Report

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A recent perception survey conducted by UNICEF on factors influencing young women's participation in the labor workforce and non-traditional jobs has revealed that the majority of India's youth, around 75%, view finding a job as the crucial next step for women post their educational endeavors.

However, the survey also uncovers that 56% of the respondents feel that the decision-making process in a woman's career path is significantly influenced by parents and partners.

According to a report, this survey was part of a broader national consultation on boosting young women's participation in the labor force, which was unveiled in New Delhi.

This insight throws light on the existing societal norms and expectations that continue to shape the career choices of young women in India. Also, it draws a clear preference among young women for employment immediately after their studies, including in sectors traditionally dominated by men.

UNICEF Survey Reveals Career Is Priority For Women

The survey, which engaged over 24,700 participants aged between 18 to 29, was conducted through UNICEF's YuWaah platform, a public-private platform. It was spread across social media channels, garnering responses from a diverse demographic, including 64% men and 36% women, with a notable 66% coming from non-urban areas of states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh.

The importance of family support was underscored by nearly 52% of respondents who pointed out that access to information, opportunities, and familial backing are essential factors influencing young women's decisions to acquire job-ready skills and enter the workforce.

Also, less than a fifth of those who participated in the survey believed that women should get married immediately after completing their studies. Around 26% youth (24% men and 325 women) feel women might face societal pressure to get married post-studies. A higher percentage of men (21%) compared to women (12%) believe that young women can get employment opportunities after marriage.

Work Modes And Non-Traditional Jobs

The survey also delved into the preferences of young women regarding their work modes. Close to 50% of participants opined that young women are inclined towards flexible workplaces, and 55% said that they prefer to work from home citing the need to balance work and household responsibilities at the same as a primary reason for this preference.

When questioned about participation in non-traditional jobs, such as drivers, work in shops, or sales among others, 41% of the respondents believed that both genders, men and women could engage in these roles. However, concerns about safety and societal acceptance were highlighted, with 24% considering these jobs risky and unsafe for women.

Among the safety concerns, 48% pointed out the issue of women having to travel alone over long distances, which is also unsafe. Further, 29% youth said that society does not consider these jobs appropriate and 13% felt that in these job roles, women don't get maternity leave and other policy benefits meant for women.

Workforce Re-entry Post-Childbirth

The ability of women to re-enter the workforce post-childbirth was another area explored in the survey. Approximately 43% of participants believe that supportive and flexible workplace policies could facilitate this transition, underlining the need for a more accommodating work environment for women.

In light of these findings, Dhuwarakha Sriram, Chief of YuWaah at Unicef India, announced the launch of the #SakshamNaariKaSafar campaign. This initiative aims to address the gaps and expand access to opportunities for women.

Arti Ahuja, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, highlighted ongoing multi-stakeholder consultations to foster a supportive ecosystem for women's increased participation in both state-owned and private sectors.