The large-scale adoption of digital and smartphone technologies and the increased need for personal care for the sick, elderly and children have opened up employment opportunities, especially for women. Why is that? The gig and platform economy offers flexibility and freelancing jobs. Those engaged in providing health and personal care have always been an integral part of the economy and have been on the front lines during the pandemic. Women form a very large proportion of this segment. The COVID-19 pandemic has further augmented the need for health and personal care, thus opening up more employment opportunities.
What we need are concerted efforts and targeted strategies along with a change in attitudes, for women to take advantage of these new labour market opportunities. Access to higher education, skill training and digital technology are the three great enablers in helping India reap the potential of its female labour force.
