The accomplishment of women in the business world is often regarded as unique, as opposed to the traditional notion that men’s success is a natural result of gender roles. Historically, women were considered caretakers of the family, particularly noticeable in countries like India. However, a transformative shift has occurred with the emergence of courageous voices within the nation, fighting advocacy efforts and implementing empowering programs.
The once-perceived “homemaker” has gradually evolved into the formidable “backbone of the economy.” Indian women’s active participation in the economy has the potential to contribute a staggering US$ 700 billion to the Global GDP, as projected by McKinsey Global. Thus, NGOs and the government have relentlessly pursued nurturing women’s entrepreneurship development in India.
From education to social awareness, today’s women are profoundly interested in self-improvement and growth. They have shattered the chains of poverty and oppression that once bound them, stepping boldly into a brighter future. Organizations like Udyogini are vital in providing support, creating a stronger and more confident generation of women eager to seize opportunities.
NGO’s Role in Women Entrepreneurship Development in India
NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) are instrumental support groups that tackle critical political and social issues, like women’s empowerment. These organizations operate independently of government assistance, relying largely on the contributions of their dedicated members and volunteers.
The funds acquired by NGOs are predominantly channeled towards advancing their mission, like Udyogini—an organization committed to crafting sustainable programs that uplift vulnerable and marginalized women across the country. Over the years, our support team has been at the forefront of empowering women entrepreneurs to secure employment and livelihood opportunities.
Our initiatives aim to provide women and youth with fair incomes and the freedom to express themselves, promoting gender equality comparable to what men experience.
4 Ongoing Programs for Women Entrepreneurship in India
Despite the current global challenges, there are still dedicated NGO support groups for women who continue to advocate for their rights. These ongoing programs aim to empower women and enable them to shape the nation’s economy actively—away from being mere bystanders in the economic landscape.
Udyogini Empowers Grahini Utpad Samiti
Grahini Utpad Samiti, a women’s business group that initially began with just ten members, has emerged triumphant. In 2021, the group received livelihood training in Pickle and Papad Making, laying the foundation for their journey. Through persistent effort and entrepreneurial spirit, the products crafted by this group have garnered significant acclaim in the Indian market.
The driving force behind this remarkable development is the Udyogini Entrepreneurship Training in Yuva Compass. This comprehensive program has equipped them with tested skills and integrated approaches to navigate the complex business world. The training supports and enhances their skills to empower them to perform well in entrepreneurship.
As a result, the members of Grahini Utpad Samiti have gained newfound economic confidence, allowing them to pursue sustainable income streams while benefiting from expert guidance on various aspects, including:
⦁ Establishing and Scaling Enterprises
⦁ Mastering Efficient Bookkeeping Methods
⦁ Developing Strong Retail Connections
⦁ Making Informed Machinery Purchases
⦁ Acquiring Suitable Packaging Materials
Udyogini’s Yuva Compass: Empowering Rural Youth
Udyogini, in partnership with Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF), launched a transformative initiative program in August 2020. The program is led by a team of passionate and dedicated youth who aim to raise awareness in the rural areas of Jharkhand. Its primary goal is to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to underprivileged rural youth.
The journey of Yuva Compass begins with village meetings, where Udyogini’s team shares invaluable insights. One of the program’s success stories is Kiran, a determined 20-year-old woman who joined with a small glimmer of hope. She participated in counseling sessions, psychometric evaluations, and job placement opportunities.
Thanks to her hard work and perseverance, Kiran landed a job in the textile department and is now flourishing. Her story stands as a powerful testimony. By providing a platform for young dreamers like Kiran to hone their skills, gain confidence, and access valuable opportunities, the program transforms lives, one success story at a time.
Women-Centric Initiatives in India’s Budget 2023
In fostering inclusivity, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has strongly emphasized women and children in the budget for 2023. With a notable increase from ₹25,172.28 crore in 2022-23 to ₹25,448.75 crore in 2023-24, amounting to an additional ₹267 crore. Within this framework lies many schemes dedicated to uplifting women entrepreneurs, including Udyogini’s women entrepreneurship development in India.
The Udyogini Scheme offers loans of up to US$3,890 to individuals who need financial support to start their businesses. However, confirming that the recipients have an annual income of at least US$1,985 is important to ensure the loaned funds contribute to a sustainable growth cycle. This will help create more opportunities for deserving women interested in starting their businesses.
India is using targeted budgeting to tackle gender inequalities and empower women entrepreneurs. By utilizing the national budget as a tool, the country is progressing towards achieving gender equality and leveling the playing field.
Mahila Samman Saving Certificate
In another empowering move, the government has introduced a transformative small-saving scheme dedicated to women, slated to remain available until March 2025. The Mahila Samman Saving Certificate allows women to open accounts and avail themselves of a fixed interest rate of 7.5% for two years.
To delve deeper into the scheme’s eligibility criteria, taxation aspects, application process, and detailed calculations, visit here.
Learn More About Women’s Entrepreneurship Development in India!
Visit our website to learn more about our programs and future advocacy for women entrepreneurs in India. You can also learn about our community to make your voice heard. Join us and become a part of it!
Call us today at +91-11 4578 1125.
