India's economic landscape presents a complex puzzle, with one of its most persistent pieces missing: the equitable participation of women in the labour force. Often described as the challenge of the 'missing twins' in the market, this gender disparity continues to hinder the nation's full economic potential. Experts like Kaibalyapati Mishra and Krishna Raj have highlighted this issue, emphasizing its deep-rooted nature and the urgent need for targeted interventions.
The Core of the 'Missing Twins' Analogy
The term 'missing twins' poignantly captures the scale of the deficit. For a vast number of men actively engaged in the Indian workforce, there is a corresponding 'twin'—a woman with comparable skills and potential—who remains absent from formal or even informal labour markets. This isn't merely a social justice issue; it represents a significant economic inefficiency and a drain on national productivity. The problem persists despite various policy measures and periods of economic growth, indicating structural and societal barriers that are difficult to dismantle.
Underlying Causes and Structural Barriers
Several intertwined factors contribute to this glaring gap. Societal norms and unpaid care responsibilities disproportionately fall on women, limiting their mobility and availability for paid work. Safety concerns in commuting and at workplaces further restrict opportunities. Additionally, the nature of job creation in recent years has often been in sectors where male participation is traditionally higher, while sectors employing more women have seen slower growth. There's also a mismatch between the skills women possess and those demanded by emerging industries, coupled with discrimination in hiring and promotions.
Consequences and the Path Forward
The consequences of this disparity are far-reaching. At a macro level, India forfeits a substantial portion of its GDP by underutilizing half of its working-age population. At a household level, it affects economic resilience and the ability to rise out of poverty. Addressing this requires a multi-pronged strategy. Enhancing access to education and skill development tailored for women is crucial. Infrastructure improvements, including safe transport and childcare facilities, can remove practical barriers. Furthermore, corporate policies promoting diversity and flexible work arrangements, along with stringent enforcement of laws against workplace harassment, are essential. As noted in the analysis, solving the 'missing twins' conundrum is not just an ethical imperative but a critical economic strategy for sustainable and inclusive growth.
The last update on this pressing opinion was noted on 21 December 2025, underscoring its continued relevance in India's socio-economic discourse. The journey towards a balanced labour market is long, but recognizing the problem is the first step towards crafting effective solutions.
