India's unemployment rate sees marginal increase to 5.5% in May

India's unemployment rate (UR) experienced a marginal increase of 0.3 percentage points, reaching 5.5% in May, up from April's figures. Data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, indicates a rise in rural unemployment from 4.6% to 5.1%, while urban unemployment saw a slight decrease from 6.6% to 6.4%. Among specific demographics, rural males aged 15 and above recorded an unemployment rate of 5.2%, and rural females stood at 4.7%. Urban females faced a higher unemployment rate of 8.2% compared to 5.9% for urban males. The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 and above also marginally declined to 54.4% in May from 55% in April.

Key Points

  • India's overall unemployment rate increased marginally by 0.3 percentage points to 5.5% in May.
  • Rural unemployment rose to 5.1%, while urban unemployment slightly decreased to 6.4%.
  • Unemployment rates varied by gender and region, with urban females experiencing the highest rate at 8.2%.
  • The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for persons aged 15 and above saw a slight decline to 54.4% in May.
  • The data is based on the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Exam Facts

  • Unemployment Rate (UR) in May: 5.5%.
  • Rural unemployment in May: 5.1%.
  • Urban unemployment in May: 6.4%.
  • Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in May: 54.4%.

Read it. Retain it. Recall it.

Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.

Get it on Google Play

All current affairs of 16 June 2026