In the last two decades, there has been a significant change in the social and economic horizon of India, with the Female Labor Force participation rate reaching 41.7% in 2023-2024. While the growing FLFPR indicates increased economic participation of women, it does not always mean that women are getting quality employment opportunities or becoming empowered. In fact, this boost in FLFPR is because most women, especially rural women, are compelled to work because of unfavorable circumstances and not because there are doors opening for them. As FLFPR is an inadequate economic metric, this study also explores other economic indicators like the global gender gap index, female entrepreneurship rate, access to financial services, women’s asset management, female unemployment rate, etc. While the participation of women is increasing exponentially across all professions, they still have to face an uphill battle to move forward in their careers and gain respect. To collect empirical evidence on workplace barriers, this study has circulated a survey filled out by 121 anonymous women belonging to all age groups from both the formal and informal sectors. The FLFPR of India has also been compared with that of emerging economies to evaluate India’s current scenario in light of global standards. Secondary data has been collected from sources such as the World Bank, the World Economic Forum, and Indian National newspapers. Thematic patterns of gender pay gap, pre-conceived notions, hostile work environment, negative and prejudiced attitude towards women, lack of mentorship programmes, and inadequate provision of childcare and maternity benefits have emerged. These become obstructions not just for women but also for organizations, India, its economy, and the Gross Domestic Product of this country. If half of the populace remains dormant in the workforce, the Indian economy will never be able to reach its maximum potential.