Major problems of women micro entrepreneurs in India-a study of Kerala

The micro enterprise and small business has always played a significant role in the economic development of a Country. Its role might not have been as spectacular as that of the large corporation involving the deployment of enormous physical, financial and human resources. However, the collective impact of the multitude of micro enterprises has been tremendous, particularly in the area of job creation. The focus on the contribution of women in direct productive work was first brought out in 1970 by Ester Boserup in his book Women’s Role in Economic Development. An increase in entrepreneurial activity is playing a major role in this development. It is believed that the existing latent entrepreneurial talents, if properly harnessed, could develop in fostering the phase of socio economic development, balance regional growth, wealth creation, employment generation, local economic development and poverty reduction. Income generating activities are not merely viewed as a tool for economic needs of women. It is equally a powerful instrument to enable women to determine their own lives. Women are culturally well equipped to run their business due to skill developed through managing households, raising children etc. Therefore, shift from family management to enterprise management may be easier than a shift from paid employment to self-employment. Despite various problems more and more women are entering into the field of entrepreneurship. Problems are found to be prevalent irrespective of the strata of the Entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurs do not feel many of the problems. But some of them are really acting as barrier for growth and development. Ignorance on the part of entrepreneurs and banks is found to be a major reason for errors. If the intention of entrepreneur and willingness of the banker are properly communicated, the ill effects of ignorance could be avoided.