Women Entrepreneurs in the Manufacturing Industries of West Bengal: Some Case Studies

Abstract

In 2010-11, a survey was conducted amongst 171 individual women entrepreneurs registered with four District Industries Centres of West Bengal namely, Kolkata, Howrah, North and South 24-Parganas. The survey, therefore, focused on urban and semi-urban areas in general and particularly, on the manufacturing sector. The objective was to understand the status of women entrepreneurs operating in the manufacturing sector of the aforementioned districts. This paper is based on the findings of the survey. The survey observed certain trends prevalent in the manufacturing sector in these areas. 91%of those surveyed were registered as single proprietorships.Most of those surveyed were essentially artisans making handicrafts, supplying exclusive sarees to boutiques and other shops, stitching dress materials, etc. Their products would often be sold through government sponsored fairs, but most would not be able to earn a significant income compared to the time and labour put in. Of course, there were exceptions in the form of second-generation entrepreneurs from well established business families, and entrepreneurs with better education and professional skills operating in the industrial sector.Most were found to be risk averters, having cautiously started their business through small enterprises with a long start-up period. Often, financial institutions like banks would consider their units unworthy of investments. The researcher recommends that to encourage women to operate in high growth areas, liberalised loan schemes with some concession in the rates of interest and moratorium periods should be provided. In every district headquarters of West Bengal, a special bank branch operated by women alone for the benefit of women entrepreneurs may be set up. Positive and encouraging attitude of family members, local people, government officials, and society at large is also essential.