Unpaid Labour in India: A Legal Analysis of Gender Inequality and Policy Frameworks

Dr. Rakesh Babu*

Abstract:This research article delves into the significant effects of unpaid labour on gender equality within the Indian context, specifically examining the often-overlooked economic implications of such work. The research article delves into how unpaid work disproportionately affects women and explores the ripple effects this has on gender disparities in areas such as workforce participation, educational achievement, and social standing. The primary objective is to analyse the nature, extent, and ramifications of unpaid work on gender equality in India. A crucial research question arises in this article: How does unpaid work affect women's participation in the economy, access to education, and social standing in India, and what policies can help measure, reduce, and redistribute it to promote gender equality? mploying a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative analysis with qualitative data. Additionally, the study incorporates policy analysis and international comparative studies to contextualize the findings within a broader global framework. Results indicate India's women spend more time on unpaid work than men, limiting opportunities for education, employment, and development, emphasizing theneed to address this hidden economy for gender equality.
Keywords: Unpaid Labour, Gender Equality, Indian Economy, Women's Empowerment, Unpaid Worker