Policy Brief: Digital Technology as an Instrument to Bridge the Gender Gaps in Access to Labour Markets

Colorful illustration of diverse women engaged with technology, emphasizing gender and labor access.

Digital Technology as an Instrument to Bridge the Gender Gaps in Access to Labour Markets

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Policy Brief: Digital Technology as an Instrument to Bridge the Gender Gaps in Access to Labour Markets

February 4, 2025

Digitalization holds immense potential to boost women’s labour force participation in South Asian economies, where they have historically lagged behind. Digital technologies have accelerated global economic growth and prosperity, and have been particularly impactful in enabling women and girls to overcome many long-standing challenges. Increased internet access and usage have been found to boost women’s income and earning potential; provide them with greater freedom and increase their sense of equity. 

This paper uses data from a nationally representative survey conducted by the NSSO in 2020-21 to investigate the gendered nature of access to digital technology, and more specifically, access to mobile phones and internet and the effect on female labour force participation rate in India.