Gender and Work Patterns in Indian Cities: A Socio-Spatial Analysis

Abstract

Using an original household survey conducted in Hyderabad and Mumbai that identifies intra-city spatial coordinates of residents, this study presents a socio-spatial analysis of gender and paid work. The results show that the ease of movement through the city, allocation of care work-related considerations and educational attainment are all crucial to understanding the labor force participation patterns of urban women in India. A gender lens identifies key facets of access and mobility characterizing urbanization in developing countries. Spatial heterogeneity of residence has very different outcomes for the labor force participation of women and men. HIGHLIGHTS Gender and city geographies mutually shape each other. Women’s labor force participation varies across and within Indian cities; men’s labor force participation is nearly uniform. Women’s paid work is higher in cities that have women-friendly transportation. Women’s paid work is higher in sub-city zones with superior transportation facilities for all. Policies that ease care or commuting burdens improve women’s participation in the labor force.