Rural Dalit Women Entrepreneurs in the Growth of Hill Economy: A Study

Abstract

Entrepreneurship development among women had proven to be a viable approach for Economic empowerment. It was more so in rural scenario where it not only enhanced household income but also rural economy as well. The reason was being ‘women are often considered as better economic stewards: has control of income and capital (land, livestock), gain more equality and control over their own lives, while contributing directly to their children’s development (nutrition, health and education) and there by indirectly to the nation’s income growth’ (M.A. Mir, 2008). In India more than 70% of populations lived in villages out of which half were women. The entrepreneurship activities of women had led to the development of robust micro economic foundations in the rural areas especially in the backward regions of the country. ‘The development and transformation of the rural economy requires rapid expansion of employment and income opportunities’ emphasized Planning Commission in 2009. Realizing the potential importance of women entrepreneurship in rural economy, the Government, Financial institutions, and community based groups were stepping forward with different approaches. A study was undertaken to highlight the role of rural dalit women entrepreneurs in the rural economy of Uttarkhand state. A total of thirty women were selected from the villages of Almora district of Kumoan region. The study enumerated certain significant aspects related to economic empowerment besides emphasizing various measures that could be focused for the capacity building of rural dalit women entrepreneurs.