IMPACT OF MATERNAL HEALTH INVESTMENT ON FEMALE LABOUR FORCE PARTICIPATION: A STUDY OF IT PROFESSIONALS IN CHENNAI

Abstract

This study examines the interplay between maternal health investment, workplace policies, and female labour force participation (FLFP) among IT professionals. Drawing upon Human Capital Theory and Labour Supply Theory, the research investigates both direct and indirect pathways through which maternal health investment influences women’s participation in the workforce, with workplace policies functioning as a mediating mechanism. A quantitative research design was adopted, and data were collected from a sample of 300 IT professionals using a structured questionnaire. Statistical techniques including descriptive analysis, correlation, independent sample t-test, multiple regression, and mediation analysis were employed to test the hypothesised relationships. The findings reveal that maternal health investment has a significant positive impact on FLFP, indicating that improved access to maternal healthcare services enhances women’s ability to remain active in the labour market. Workplace policies also demonstrate a significant positive effect on FLFP, highlighting the importance of organizational support systems such as maternity benefits, flexible working arrangements, and childcare facilities. Furthermore, workplace policies partially mediate the relationship between maternal health investment and FLFP, suggesting that maternal health not only directly influences labour participation but also operates indirectly through supportive organizational environments. The results also indicate significant differences in labour force participation based on maternal status, with women having children exhibiting distinct participation patterns compared to those without children.