Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Aspirations of Women Weavers in West Bengal’s Handloom Sector - A Pathway to Empowerment and Inclusive Development

Abstract

Motivation: The handloom sector, a custodian of India's rich cultural heritage, plays a pivotal role in driving economic prosperity. West Bengal, home to the nation's second-largest number of weaver households, stands out with women comprising 77% of its adult workforce in this sector. Their contributions transcend financial independence, empowering them to fulfil personal aspirations, command economic resources, and challenge patriarchal structures. This empowerment triggers societal shifts, paving the way for greater gender parity in rural India. Objectives: This study aims to examine how socio-economic factors shape women’s participation in the handloom sector, assess whether their involvement stems from opportunities or distress, identify and rank key challenges they face, and propose targeted policy measures to support their entrepreneurial aspirations, fostering empowerment and inclusive development. Research Methodology: The study surveyed 123 women weavers from Santipur (Nadia district) and Begampur & Dhaniakhali (Hooghly district). Snowball sampling guided participant selection, with insights collected via pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaires. Binary Logistic Regression was employed to analyze the influence of various socioeconomic factors on entrepreneurial aspirations, while the Garrett Ranking method identified and prioritized challenges faced by women in their entrepreneurial journeys. Major Findings: Education, income levels, family support, and specialized training emerged as significant enablers of entrepreneurial ambitions. However, barriers such as inadequate working capital, rising input costs, low wages, competition from power-loom products, and limited credit access persist, hindering progress. Policy Relevance: The study advocates for skill development programmes, enhanced market access through trade fairs and online platforms, and workshops to increase awareness of government schemes. Strengthening handloom cooperatives and introducing direct cash transfers for working capital needs are vital steps to bolster women’s empowerment and sustain the legacy of the handloom sector.