Source: TH
Context:
According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), India’s unemployment rate (UR) among persons aged 15 years and above rose slightly to 5% in January 2026, up from 4.8% in December 2025.
Key Findings of the Survey
1. Marginal Rise in Unemployment
- Overall unemployment increased to 5%.
- Rise observed in both rural and urban areas.
2. Decline in Labour Market Indicators
The survey reported a fall in:
- Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): Share of working-age population that is employed or seeking work.
- Worker Population Ratio (WPR): Share of population actually employed.
➡ Decline in both rural and urban regions.
About Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
- Conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
- Provides data on:
- Employment
- Unemployment
- Labour force participation
- Key objective:
- Measure labour market indicators in rural and urban areas.
Important Labour Market Indicators
- Unemployment Rate (UR) = Percentage of unemployed persons among labour force.
- Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) = Labour force ÷ working-age population.
- Worker Population Ratio (WPR) = Employed persons ÷ total population.
