Abstract

The work participation scenario is changing in case of women workers due to changing living standards and growth of consumerism more and more women are joining the work force and opt for either jobs or self employment. Women are working because of gross economic necessity, to raise standard of living, to make use of their qualification, to pass their idle time or to earn their livelihood. This article takes into consideration three aspects of working women: their social characteristics, working characteristics and how work affects their livelihood and decision making power. This study has tried to examine the socio- economic conditions of the women workers. The primary data had been collected through questionnaire from 60 respondents of village Sarhali of Taran-Taran district of Punjab state. The main purpose of the study was to examine the socio-economic background of the women workers and to assess the empowerment of women workers through their economic independence.

Key words: Women workers, economic independence, decision making power, self employment.