Socio-cultural aspects of women entrepreneurs in MSMEs: A study of Uttarakhand state

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify the socio-cultural and industrial characteristics of women entrepreneurs running MSMEs in Uttarakhand state. A convenience sample of 500 women entrepreneurs from MSMEs is selected. A qualitative methodology based upon structured questionnaire with women entrepreneurs is used enabling them to response their individual experiences. Findings of the study reveal that some factors of socio-cultural characteristics of women entrepreneurs in Uttarakhand need to be improved. Age groups other than 26-35 years and educational qualification or other knowledge enhancing learning practices should be applied to motivate girls & women and to initiate entrepreneurial activities. Furthermore, the study is the also attempting to analysis industrial characteristics of women entrepreneurs from an institutional perspective of MSMEs in general and Uttarakhand in particular which identifies that rural MSMEs, second & third generation women entrepreneurs, enhancement of service sector and other forms of entrepreneurship other than sole proprietorship, need to be supported so that women can enter into entrepreneurial progress.