The Changing Role of Women in India
India has seen a huge shift in the last two decades. More women are working, starting businesses, and contributing to family wealth. According to workforce data, women now make up around 25% of India’s formal workforce, and many are also key contributors in family businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.
Yet, despite this financial contribution, women are often underinsured compared to men. Most families still buy life insurance policies in the husband’s name, overlooking the importance of financial protection for women.
Why Women Need Life Insurance Too
- Income Protection: If you’re an earning woman, your income may support household expenses, children’s education, or even EMIs. Life insurance ensures that these goals don’t get derailed in your absence.
- Unpaid Work Has Value: Even homemakers create huge financial value. Replacing domestic work, child care, and household management has a significant cost — insurance provides a safety net.
- Growing Responsibilities: Women increasingly shoulder dual roles — income earners + caregivers. Adequate coverage protects both financial and emotional responsibilities.
- Wealth Planning: Insurance is not just protection, it’s also a tax-efficient tool for wealth transfer and legacy building.
What the Data Says (2024 Snapshot)
- Insurance penetration among women in India remains very low — surveys show less than 40% of working women have any life cover.
- Average life cover for insured women is often less than 50% of men’s coverage.
- The life insurance industry itself is now recognising this gap, with insurers launching dedicated women-centric plans covering critical illnesses, maternity benefits, and lower premiums.
How Much Cover Should a Woman Take?
A simple thumb rule is 10–15 times your annual income as life cover. But if you are a homemaker, calculate the replacement cost of your contribution (childcare, home management, etc.) and add major future goals like your child’s education or marriage.
For example:
- Working woman with ₹10 lakh annual income → Ideal life cover = ₹1–1.5 crore.
- Homemaker managing a household of 4 → Replacement cost estimated at ₹25,000–₹40,000/month. Over 15 years, this adds up to a financial impact of ₹50–75 lakh.
Types of Plans That Work Well for Women
- Term Insurance: Highest coverage at lowest cost. Every woman with financial dependents should consider this first.
- Child Plans: Ensures your child’s education is secure even if something happens to you.
- Health + Critical Illness Riders: Women face unique health risks (like breast/ovarian cancer). Riders provide additional financial protection.
- Wealth-Building Plans (ULIPs/Endowment): If you want insurance + investment in one.
Why Women Shouldn’t Delay Insurance
- Lower Premiums: Women generally pay 10–15% lower premiums than men for the same age and cover.
- Health Advantage: Buying early locks in lower premiums before age-related health issues begin.
- Longer Protection: Securing insurance early means coverage through your most financially active years.
Practical Steps to Get Started
- Calculate your financial contribution (income + unpaid work).
- Choose a sum assured that covers dependents for at least 10–15 years.
- Start with term insurance and add riders or child plans as needed.
- Review coverage every 3–5 years as your responsibilities grow.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Whether you’re a salaried professional, businesswoman, or homemaker, life insurance is your financial shield. Don’t leave your family’s future unprotected.
Disclaimer
This blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute personalised financial advice. Insurance and investment products are subject to terms and conditions of the insurer. Please consult a qualified advisor before making purchase decisions.
- IRDAI & industry reports on women and insurance coverage (2024)
- World Bank & NITI Aayog data on female workforce participation
- Media insights on women-centric insurance plans and premium benefits

