Unemployment: According to the PLFS report, the unemployment rate among the youth reached 15.2 percent in March. Employment opportunities in urban areas are shrinking. Let’s find out what the report reveals.

Unemployment Rises in March

PLFS Report: Amidst ongoing global uncertainties, another piece of bad news is knocking on India’s door. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), has revealed a finding that has heightened concerns.

According to the survey, the unemployment rate among individuals aged 15 to 29 rose to 15.2 percent in March—up from 14.8 percent in February. According to the data, this marks the highest level recorded in the last nine months. Prior to this, a youth unemployment rate of 15.3 percent was recorded in June 2025.

What Does the Report Say?

In terms of statistics, the overall unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above rose to 5.1 percent in March. This figure stood at 4.9 percent in February. According to the Ministry, the primary reason cited for this increase is a decline in employment opportunities within urban areas.

Unemployment Rises in Cities

Focusing on the youth demographic, the unemployment rate among men aged 15–29 reached 14.3 percent in March, up from 13.7 percent in February. Meanwhile, for women in this age group, the rate rose to 17.7 percent, compared to 17.6 percent previously.

In rural areas, youth unemployment stood at 13.6 percent, whereas in urban areas, it surged to 18.4 percent. These figures clearly indicate that the unemployment rate has risen more significantly in cities compared to villages.

Labor Force Participation Declines

A decline was also recorded in the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) during the month of March. This figure has dropped to 55.4 percent, whereas in February, it stood at 55.9 percent. A decline has also been observed in rural areas; previously at 58.7 percent, the figure has now reached the 58 percent mark.

A decline was also noted in the female participation rate, which fell to 34.4 percent—down from 35.3 percent previously. Meanwhile, the male participation rate saw a slight dip, settling at 77.4 percent, compared to 77.5 percent in February.