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This is an archive article published on June 8, 2016

Largest share of non-workers among Muslims

60% Indians listed as ‘non-workers’ in Census data, marking a marginal improvement since 2001.

unemployment, muslim unemployment rate, Economic Survey, india economic survey, india employment, Muslims in india, Muslim unemployment, unemployment in india, urban unemployment ratio, Labour Force Participation, india economic growth, latest new, india news, latest news The total 72.89 crore Indians have been listed as non-workers — 60.20% of the total population of 121.08 crore.

The percentage of the non-working population is highest among Muslims in the country, according to data released by the Census office on Tuesday. A massive 11.61 crore Muslims — who make up 67.42% of the 17.22 crore Muslim community — have been listed as non-workers.

The total 72.89 crore Indians have been listed as non-workers — 60.20% of the total population of 121.08 crore. Non-workers are defined as those who do not participate in any economic activity — paid or unpaid, household duties, or cultivation.

Following Muslims in the list of communities with the largest share of non-workers are Jains. There are 0.29 crore non-working Jains, who make up 64.47% of the total Jain population. After them are Sikhs (63.76%), Hindus (58.95%), Christians (58.09%), Buddhists (56.85%) and Others (51.50%).

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An analysis of the Census records shows that the percentage share of non-workers fell slightly between 2001 and 2011. In 2001, out of a total population of 102.8 crore, 62.63 crore were registered as non-workers — making up 60.88% of the population. In 2011, the number of non-workers has gone up to 72.88 crore, but they now make up 60.2% of the total 121.05 crore population.

CaptureThe large number of Muslim non-workers has been blamed on the lack of adequate employment opportunities, and an exceptionally skewed work participation ratio between men and women. Women make up only 15.58% of the community’s main total working population. The participation of women in the main workforce in India is 24.64%.

The only community where more women are confined to their homes are Jains — where the participation of women as main workers is just 10.02%.

“A low work participation rate generally does not mean that a community is poor. It is seen that work participation is higher in communities that are poor and backward. In the case of Muslims, there is a huge distortion… A large section of the community prefers that its women stay at home, which is one reason for low work participation,” Dr Abdul Shaban, deputy director, TISS, said.

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workEconomists are split on why the number of non-workers in the economy is on the rise, but are unanimous that it is not a healthy trend for a growing economy.

“In India traditionally, the participation of women in the workforce has been low. There is some evidence that if the household income goes up women generally withdraw themselves from the workforce,” Dr Pronab Sen, former chairman of the National Statistical Commission had said earlier.

Zeeshan Shaikh is the Associate Editor who heads The Indian Express' Mumbai reporting team. He is recognized for his highly specialized Expertise in analyzing the complex dynamics of Maharashtra politics and critical minority issues, providing in-depth, nuanced, and Trustworthy reports. Expertise  Senior Editorial Role: As an Associate Editor leading the Mumbai reporting team, Zeeshan Shaikh holds a position of significant Authority and journalistic responsibility at a leading national newspaper. Core Specialization: His reporting focuses intensely on two interconnected, high-impact areas: Maharashtra Politics & Urban Power Structures: Provides deep-dive analyses into political strategies, municipal elections (e.g., BMC polls), the history of alliances (e.g., Shiv Sena's shifting partners), and the changing demographics that influence civic power in Mumbai. Minority Issues and Socio-Political Trends: Excels in coverage of the Muslim community's representation in power, demographic shifts, socio-economic challenges, and the historical context of sensitive political and cultural issues (e.g., the 'Vande Mataram' debate's roots in the BMC). Investigative Depth: His articles frequently delve into the historical roots and contemporary consequences of major events, ranging from the rise of extremist groups in specific villages (e.g., Borivali-Padgha) to the long-term collapse of established political parties (e.g., Congress in Mumbai). Trustworthiness & Credibility Data-Driven Analysis: Zeeshan's work often incorporates empirical data, such as National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) statistics on arrests and convictions of minorities, or data on asset growth of politicians, grounding his reports in factual evidence. Focus on Hinterland Issues: While based in Mumbai, he maintains a wide lens, covering issues affecting the state's hinterlands, including water crises, infrastructure delays, and the plight of marginalized communities (e.g., manual scavengers). Institutional Affiliation: His senior position at The Indian Express—a publication known for its tradition of rigorous political and investigative journalism—underscores the high level of editorial vetting and Trustworthiness of his reports. He tweets @zeeshansahafi ... Read More

 

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