The Economic Times

Indias urban unemployment rate eases to 6.6% in Jan-March quarter, rural joblessness rises to 4.3%

India's urban joblessness saw a slight dip to 6.6 percent in the first quarter of 2026. Rural unemployment, however, increased to 4.3 percent. Labour force participation rates also showed minor declines across urban and rural areas. Regular wage employment in rural regions grew, while self-employment decreased. Agriculture's share in rural jobs reduced as tertiary and secondary sectors expanded.