NSO Data: India’s Unemployment Rate Declines to 3-Quarter Low of 4.8% in Q3FY26

Current Context: The National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), released the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) – Quarterly Bulletin on 10 February 2026.

• It covers Q3 FY26 (Oct–Dec 2025) labour market performance.
• India’s unemployment rate fell to 4.8%, marking the lowest level in three quarters.
• Rural unemployment dropped to 4.0%, while urban unemployment eased to 6.7%.
• The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) rose to 55.8%, showing more people entering the workforce.
• Female participation climbed to 34.9%, reflecting stronger inclusion in jobs.
• Employment gains were driven by self‑employment, agriculture in rural areas, and services in urban centres.

Question:

Q.1 According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) – Quarterly Bulletin (Q3 FY26) released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), what was India’s unemployment rate in October–December 2025?
a) 5.2%
b) 4.8%
c) 6.1%
d) 3.9%

Answer: b) As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) – Q3 FY26, India’s unemployment rate declined to 4.8%, the lowest in three quarters.