NEW DELHI — The recent report by Uber and Oxford Economics indicates that by improving access to mobility, women’s participation in the workforce could see a substantial increase of 4 to 6.9 percent by the year 2028.
Based on a survey conducted across five major Indian cities—Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai—the study suggests that this enhanced mobility could potentially lead to an additional 0.32 to 0.56 million women joining the workforce and contribute to a growth of over one percent in the size of their respective economies.
Union Minister Smriti Irani, speaking at the report’s release, emphasized the critical role of accessible mobility in not only boosting women’s workforce participation but also addressing the transition gap from completing the 12th standard to higher education.
Despite having two crore women currently enrolled in higher education, the report envisions a possible doubling of this number with increased mobility affordability.
The study also reveals that four out of 10 working women riders attribute their entry into the workforce to ride-hailing services, helping them overcome significant barriers.
Half of the surveyed working women express that ride-hailing is crucial in striking a balance between work and family responsibilities.
Safety emerges as a primary concern, with 75 percent of women using cabs for commuting citing it as the main reason for their choice.
Furthermore, 32 percent of working women riders acknowledge that ride-hailing has expanded their access to a wider pool of suitable work opportunities, broadening their horizons and career prospects.
These findings collectively underscore the multifaceted impact of improved mobility on women’s empowerment, workforce participation, and overall societal progress.