Care Economy: The structural foundation of women-led development.....by Annpurna Devi
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honour not only achievements but the indomitable spirit of Bharat’s women.
The story of Bharat has always been shaped by the strength of its women not only in legislatures and boardrooms, but equally in homes, farms, classrooms and countless quiet spaces where they have stood as silent pillars of our society.
Today Indian women are at the forefront of India’s transformation—advancing in education, STEM, defence, and governance. From fighter pilots to grassroots leaders, they are driving inclusive and sustained national progress.
This strength is rooted in a profound historical legacy - From Savitribai Phule’s pioneering work in girls’ education to Ahilyabai Holkar’s compassionate governance. Our civilisation reveres Shakti, seeing in every woman the strength to nurture and lead.
Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has moved beyond viewing women solely as beneficiaries to recognising them as leaders and drivers of development. Women-led development is no longer an aspiration — it is reflected in policy, governance, and national priorities
Behind every visible achievement also stands a silent force -The Care Economy. It is the mother who rises before dawn to nurture her family before stepping into her workplace. The wife who holds her family together with resilience, even in the face of adversity.
The daughter who balances a full day’s work with tending to ageing parents at night. Much of this labour has gone unmeasured, yet it quietly sustains our homes, our communities and our nation. Recognising this, the Government is committed to valuing, supporting and strengthening care work as a foundation of inclusive growth.
India’s Female Labour Force Participation Rate has risen from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24, reflecting women’s expanding economic agency. As highlighted in the Economic Survey, greater workforce participation and stronger care services can unlock millions of opportunities for women.
In line with this vision, the Union Budget 2026–27 has made historic investments to strengthen the care ecosystem. The Gender Budget has crossed ₹5 lakh crore for the first time, reflecting the Modi Government’s unwavering commitment to women-led development.
Through a Whole-of-Government approach, initiatives are underway to skill 1.5 lakh caregivers, expand Working Women Hostels, upgrade Anganwadi centres for structured early childhood care, and strengthen convergence across health and nutrition systems.
These measures reaffirm a clear national resolve: when women are supported, economies accelerate.
Legal reforms such as the Code on Social Security and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code are strengthening crèche facilities and worker welfare, recognising childcare as an enabler of economic justice and workforce participation.
With women and children forming over 65 percent of India’s population, investing in accessible and quality childcare supports early development, enables mothers’ aspirations, and builds a stronger national foundation.
Rapid urbanisation, migration and the rise of nuclear families are reshaping traditional support systems. As informal structures come under strain, the need for accessible, affordable and quality childcare and family services is becoming increasingly important.
Investing in the care economy advances multiple national priorities simultaneously. It enables women’s workforce participation, strengthens child development, supports elderly wellbeing and creates dignified employment.
When care systems are institutionalised, women gain agency, families gain stability and the nation gains momentum.
As Bharat advances towards Viksit Bharat @2047, we recognise a fundamental truth: sustainable growth must rest on strong social foundations.
The care economy is one such foundation. On this International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the invisible labour of care is valued, supported and strengthened. Our vision of a women-led Viksit Bharat is one where every woman has the opportunity, dignity and institutional support to realise her full potential not only as a participant in development, but as its leader.
March 7, 2026
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Annpurna Devi, Union Minister of Women and Child Development, GoI
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