In India, main worker is defined as a person who works for at least _____ months in a year. 

The correct answer is 6.

Key Points

• In India, a main worker is defined as a person who works for a minimum of 6 months (183 days or more) in a year.
• This definition is provided by the Census of India for categorizing individuals based on their work participation.
• Individuals working less than 6 months in a year are classified as marginal workers.
• The categorization helps in understanding the workforce distribution and employment trends in India.
• Such definitions are crucial for formulating government policies related to employment, labor welfare, and economic planning.

Additional Information

• Worker Categories in India
  • Workers are broadly classified into Main Workers and Marginal Workers by the Census of India.
  • Main Workers: Those who worked for 183 days or more in the reference year.
  • Marginal Workers: Those who worked for less than 183 days in the reference year.
  • Non-workers refer to individuals who are not engaged in any economic activity, such as students, homemakers, or retired individuals.
• Census of India
  • The Census is conducted every 10 years to collect demographic, social, and economic data.
  • The latest Census was conducted in 2011, and the next is scheduled (but delayed) for 2021.
  • Data on workers is crucial for understanding employment patterns and economic development.
• Employment Terminologies
  • Workforce Participation Rate (WPR): Percentage of the population engaged in economic activities.
  • Unorganized Sector: Includes informal jobs without fixed wages or social security.
  • Organized Sector: Jobs with fixed terms, wages, and social security benefits.
• Policy Implications
  • Classifying workers helps in designing policies like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
  • Employment data informs schemes aimed at skill development and poverty alleviation.