BS EDIT: From Inclusion to Empowerment

By Business StandardPublished On Jun 16, 2026

Signs of Progress

More women now own assets, use the internet, operate bank accounts and earn cash income

Ownership Matters

Rising asset ownership is encouraging, but much of it remains joint rather than independent

Quality of Work

Higher workforce participation has not fully translated into secure, formal employment

Financial Access Grows

Banking access has expanded significantly, strengthening women's participation in the formal economy

The Credit Gap

Many credit-eligible women still remain outside the formal lending system

The Next Step

Empowerment will require stronger property rights, better jobs, greater credit access and support for women-led enterprises