India's unemployment rate rises to 5.6% in May 2025

19-Jun-2025

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India's unemployment rate climbed to 5.6% in May 2025 from 5.1% in April, as reported by the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). 

This increase reflects a rising challenge for job seekers across both rural and urban areas, notably among young people and women. 

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) also observed a broader decline in employment due to several seasonal factors.

Rural areas saw a considerable rise in unemployment among those aged 15–29, with the rate reaching 13.7% in May from 12.3% in April. 

The situation was similarly difficult for urban youth, where unemployment marginally increased to 17.9% from 17.2% the previous month. 

Overall, rural unemployment stood at 5.4%, while urban unemployment was slightly higher at 5.9%.