Social Entrepreneurship among Tribal Women in Gajapati District, Odisha, India: Barriers, Opportunities and Pathways to Empowerment

Abstract

This study examines the status of social entrepreneurship among tribal women in Gajapati district, Odisha, across six blocks—Guma, Nuagada, R. Udayagiri, Mohana, Rayagada, and Kasinagar—drawing on primary data from 200 respondents. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined structured surveys, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions, the research explores the range of enterprises operated by women, the barriers they face, and the opportunities for scaling up social enterprises. Tribal women were found to be primarily engaged in agriculture-related activities, non-timber forest product (NTFP) processing, handicrafts, tailoring, and petty businesses, often organized through Self-Help Groups (SHGs). The analysis, guided by the Capability Approach, Social Capital Theory, and the Empowerment Framework, shows that while barriers such as limited credit, market isolation, poor infrastructure, and gendered mobility restrictions persist, enabling factors like SHG federations, government livelihood missions, NGO interventions, and emerging digital platforms support women’s entrepreneurial efforts. The study highlights that strengthening SHG federations, promoting gender-sensitive financial products, building structured value chains, and expanding digital inclusion are critical pathways to empower tribal women and ensure inclusive, sustainable development in marginalized regions.