Woman Entrepreneurship-A Prerequisite for Women Empowerment in India

Abstract

Although constitution of India has granted equal rights to both men and women still women are generally perceived as homemakers and have nothing to do with the business, economy and others. Cultural values and social norms stop them realising their full potential for development. So, to improve the standard of women and to materialise their economic potential, it is necessary to design programmes by applying a mainstreaming strategy. Thus, women's entrepreneurship is the multidimensional perspective which not only facilitates women's empowerment but also contributes to gender unbiasedness, poverty reduction and socio-economic well-being of society and nation. Women entrepreneurship is the strategy that fosters strong image of women in society and leads to balanced regional development, effective utilisation of resources, thereby reducing unemployment and poverty. Thus, this paper is an attempt to determine the condition of woman entrepreneurship in India and the challenges faced by the women to establish and sustain successful business. In addition to that, this paper will also thoroughly light on the initiatives taken by government and roles played by various government and non-government organisations (NGOs) in encouraging women entrepreneurship in India.