Dynamics of Entrepreneurship Development among Scheduled Caste & Scheduled Tribe Candidates under Affirmative Action, with Special Reference to Pune District

Abstract

Some strata of the society which is excluded from the development have been identified such as poor people, women and SC, ST. Such disadvantaged groups often find themselves in a less favourable situation compared to non- disadvantaged groups in an area like Entrepreneurship. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes continue to suffer on account of severe socio-economic deprivation arising out of poor asset base, dependence on wage labour, poor situation of farming, engagement in scavenging and other unclean jobs and other social evils. Under the current circumstances, new avenues for employment and livelihood such as entrepreneurship or self-employment assume importance. These can provide both employment as well as better incomes – opportunities. Affirmative action is a way to increase access to education and employment for historically disadvantaged or non-dominant groups in both developed and developing countries. Some responsible Corporate Houses like TATA Group has adopted Affirmative action as a core agenda for social change. In order to harness potential of women and SC/STs and for the sake of their continuous growth and development, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, Ahmadabad under the affirmative action of TATA Communications Ltd. has successfully developed entrepreneurs in SC and ST Communities in Pune District by making them aware, stimulating them and extending them guidance for sustainable growth. Based on the experience of author in organising above mentioned project, this paper throws light on the dynamics of Entrepreneurship Development among SC, ST Candidates, challenges, impact and the model with various intervention needed to develop such entrepreneurs