An Empirical Study on the Determinants of Income and Work Participation of Women Construction Workers in Bengaluru South City, Karnataka

Abstract

The construction sector in India has long been a driving force behind urban growth and remains one of the largest employers of informal labour. Yet, the everyday experiences and struggles of women in this industry often go unnoticed. This study takes a closer look at the factors shaping the income and work participation of women employed on construction sites in Bengaluru South City, Karnataka. Drawing on primary survey data from women working across different sites, the study documents their social and demographic backgrounds, employment patterns, skill levels, health concerns, and access to welfare benefits. To make sense of these dynamics, regression analysis was used to explore how variables such as age, education, migration, work experience, hours of labour, household responsibilities, and workplace safety affect both income levels and labour force participation. The initial results suggest that education, skill training, and steady employment play a key role in securing higher wages and more consistent work. At the same time, barriers such as long commuting distances, limited childcare options, and unsafe working conditions continue to hold women back. These findings reveal the persistent gendered vulnerabilities that shape women’s place in the construction industry. The study underscores the need for stronger policy interventions which are ranging from skill-building initiatives and wage regulation to improved social security and gender-sensitive workplace practices. By presenting fresh empirical evidence, this research adds to academic debates on labour and also provides insights that can guide policy reforms in urban Karnataka.