Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment
Q6. “The care economy is no longer merely a social welfare concern but an essential pillar of economic infrastructure.” Explain the growing importance of the care economy in India. Examine its potential contribution to employment generation. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
India’s demographic transition, rising elderly dependency and recent recommendations by the EAC-PM on the care economy have highlighted the sector’s growing economic and employment significance.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining why the care economy is increasingly becoming an important component of economic infrastructure in India and examining its role in generating employment opportunities across formal and informal sectors.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly mention the growing demand for organised care services due to ageing population, urbanisation and changing family structures.
Body
- Growing importance of the care economy: Mention demographic transition, women’s workforce participation, unpaid care burden, social protection and human capital development.
- Contribution to employment generation: Discuss labour-intensive job creation, women-centric employment, skilled workforce expansion, entrepreneurship and global caregiving opportunities.
Conclusion
Highlight that investment in the care economy can simultaneously strengthen social welfare, employment generation and inclusive economic growth in India.
