Archive · 17 Nov 2025
India's Digital Economy Growth Leaves Women Behind
India's digital economy is growing fast, but women are not benefiting equally.
They make up only 20% of the digital workforce and mostly work in low-paying jobs.
Women in rural areas have less access to mobile phones and the internet.
To fix this, we need better digital skills training, more safe and affordable internet access, and policies to protect women's rights at work.
India's digital economy contributes 11.7% to GDP, projected to exceed 20% by 2030
Women constitute only 20% of India's digital workforce, few in leadership roles
Gender digital divide persists, with rural women lagging in mobile ownership and internet use
Women concentrated in low-value roles, earn 82% of men's wages for same tasks
Remote work, women-led networks, and supportive measures empower women in digital jobs
- Who
- Women in India's digital workforce
- What
- Face barriers to equal participation and advancement in the growing digital economy
- When
- As of 2022, with projections for the future
- Where
- India
- Why
- Due to persistent gender gaps in access, skills, and workplace conditions
Barriers to Women's Progress
Enablers for Women's Participation
Limited Access to Devices and Digital Literacy
Barriers to Women's Progress
Prevents many women from moving beyond basic participation
Enablers for Women's Participation
Not mentioned
Deep-rooted Social Norms and Care Burdens
Barriers to Women's Progress
Limit women's ability to pursue and sustain digital employment
Enablers for Women's Participation
Not mentioned
Risks from Unclear Algorithms and Informal Contracts
Barriers to Women's Progress
Cause emotional stress and financial insecurity for women
Enablers for Women's Participation
Not mentioned
- Digital Economy Contribution to GDP
- 11.7% (2021), projected to exceed 20% by 2030
- Women's Share in Digital Workforce
- 20%
- Rural Women's Mobile Ownership
- 48.4% vs 80.7% for men
- Women's Mobile Internet Use
- 37%
- Women's Earning as % of Men's for Same Tasks
- 82%