Unveiling the Hurdles: Challenges Confronting Women Entrepreneurs in North 24 Parganas, WB – A Comprehensive Analysis

By : Samrat Chattapadhoy  

Program Manager , Bharatiya Jana Seva Mission | Editor, BNE News Network .

Introduction

Women entrepreneurs in India, particularly in regions like North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, State , have been making significant strides. However, their growth is often hindered by a multitude of challenges that are unique to their context. This report aims to delve deeper into these challenges, offering insights that can inform policymaking and support initiatives aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs.

Key Challenges

1. Lack of Business Knowledge: Many women entrepreneurs lack a clear understanding of fundamental business concepts such as market analysis, financial management, and strategic planning.
2. Limited Experience: As pioneers in their families, these women often lack the benefit of generational business knowledge or mentorship.
3. Skill Gap: There is a significant gap in the business skills possessed by women entrepreneurs, particularly in areas like marketing, sales, and technology.
4. Unregistered Businesses: A substantial portion of women-owned businesses remain unregistered, limiting their access to formal support systems and resources.
5. Poor Record-keeping: Inadequate record-keeping practices hinder financial management and tax compliance.
6. Overreliance on Men: Many women entrepreneurs rely heavily on male family members or employees for various business activities, limiting their autonomy.
7. Lack of Awareness of Government Schemes: Women entrepreneurs often lack information about government schemes and subsidies that can support their businesses.
8. Limited Banking Knowledge: Many women entrepreneurs are unfamiliar with banking procedures and lack the confidence to access financial services.
9. Confusion Between Personal and Business Finances: Blurring the lines between personal and business finances can lead to poor financial management.
10. Inability to Handle Crises: Women entrepreneurs often lack the skills and resources to cope with business crises.
11. Limited Digital Literacy: A lack of understanding of digital tools and e-commerce platforms restricts market reach and growth.

Discussion

These challenges are interconnected and often stem from broader societal and economic factors. For instance, the lack of business knowledge can be attributed to limited educational opportunities and societal expectations. Similarly, the overreliance on men reflects deep-rooted gender roles and power dynamics.

Recommendations :

To address these challenges, a multi-pronged approach is needed:

• Skill Development: Targeted training programs can equip women entrepreneurs with essential business skills.
• Mentorship: Pairing women entrepreneurs with experienced mentors can provide valuable guidance and support.
• Financial Literacy: Workshops and counseling sessions can improve financial management and banking literacy.
• Networking Opportunities: Creating platforms for women entrepreneurs to network can facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration.
• Simplified Regulations: Simplifying the process of registering and operating businesses can encourage more women to start their ventures.
• Digital Empowerment: Providing access to technology and training in digital tools can help women entrepreneurs expand their market reach.
• Access to Finance: Expanding access to credit and financial products can help women entrepreneurs scale their businesses.
• Government Support: Government agencies can play a crucial role by providing targeted support, such as subsidies, grants, and incubation centers.

Conclusion

Empowering women entrepreneurs is not only about economic growth but also about social justice and equality. By addressing the unique challenges faced by women-owned businesses in North 24 Parganas, we can create a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

© This report rights reserved under Bharatiya Jana Seva Mission’s Social Research Cell