Problem Faced by the Women Entrepreneurs in Current Scenario-A Study

Abstract

Women entrepreneurship plays an important role in promoting economic development, employment generation and socio-economic empowerment. The present study examines the socio-economic and entrepreneurial status of women entrepreneurs and identifies the major problems and constraints faced by them in the study area. The study focuses on women entrepreneurs in four districts of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram. Primary data were collected through interviews from women entrepreneurs, and a sample of 350 respondents was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Various statistical tools, including percentage analysis, Garrett’s ranking technique, multiple regression analysis and chi-square test, were employed for analysing the data. The study finds that socio-economic characteristics such as age, marital status, educational qualification, family background, family contacts and entrepreneurial experience are significantly associated with the performance of women-owned enterprises. The findings further reveal that finance and marketing are major problems faced by women entrepreneurs. Among the social constraints, the dual role of women, prejudice against women, male domination, lack of economic freedom and inadequate family encouragement emerge as important barriers. The study also indicates that women entrepreneurs require greater financial assistance, marketing facilities, family support, government encouragement and effective entrepreneurship development programs. The study concludes that strengthening institutional support and reducing social and financial constraints can facilitate the growth of women entrepreneurship and contribute to employment generation and rural socio-economic development.