Tamil Nadu has emerged as the top state in India for employing women in factories, according to the latest Annual Survey of Industries (2022–2023). With over 6.5 lakh women working in various industrial units, the state has set a strong example in promoting female participation in the manufacturing sector.
A Record-Breaking Workforce
The data shows that Tamil Nadu has 655,020 women directly employed in factories—more than double the number in Karnataka, which ranks second with 247,719. This achievement reflects the state’s long-standing focus on industrial growth and inclusive employment.
Factories in Tamil Nadu span across textiles, electronics, automobiles, and food processing. Many of these industries actively hire women for roles in production, quality control, packaging, and assembly. The rise in employment is also linked to government policies that support women’s education, skill training, and workplace safety.
Why Tamil Nadu Stands Out
Several factors contribute to Tamil Nadu’s success in this area:
- Strong industrial base with thousands of registered factories
- Government schemes promoting women’s employment
- Availability of skilled female workers, especially in textile and electronics sectors
- Safe working environments and transport facilities for women
The state’s industrial hubs like Coimbatore, Tiruppur, and Chennai have become major centers for women-led factory work.
National Comparison
Following Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, other states with high numbers of women in factories include Andhra Pradesh (104,091), Maharashtra (88,985), and Gujarat (84,266). However, the gap between Tamil Nadu and the rest is significant, showing how far ahead the state is in this area.
States like Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand have much lower numbers, indicating regional differences in industrial development and gender inclusion.
A Step Toward Equality
Experts say Tamil Nadu’s performance is a sign of progress toward gender equality in India’s workforce. When women are given equal opportunities in industries, it boosts family incomes, improves living standards, and strengthens the economy.
The state’s success also sends a message to other regions: with the right policies and support, women can thrive in factory jobs and contribute meaningfully to industrial growth.
As India continues to grow as a manufacturing hub, Tamil Nadu’s leadership in women’s employment sets a powerful example for the rest of the country.
