India’s rural economy has seen a significant rise in Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR), driven by complex economic, social, and policy factors. This report examines whether this increase represents meaningful employment or remains largely informal and unpaid. Structural shifts, including migration patterns and COVID19-induced reverse migration, have reshaped household roles, often increasing women’s agricultural and home based work. Government welfare schemes, such as cash transfers and employment programs, have created new income opportunities. Based on surveys of 2,381 women across four northern states, the report explores the effects of male migration, asset ownership, and welfare schemes on rural women’s labor dynamics.