Women empowerment through entrepreneurship development programmes: A study in Darjeeling

This study examines the influence of Entrepreneurship Development Programs (EDPs) on women’s empowerment in Darjeeling, India. Employing an empirical methodology, this study utilizes primary data collected via a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 30 women entrepreneurs. The objectives were to analyze the perceptions of women entrepreneurs regarding EDPs and explore the relationship between their demographic characteristics and these perceptions. The study posits that EDPs offer valuable knowledge and skills development, effectively address the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, and enhance motivation, with perceptions varying based on demographic factors. The findings indicate that 60-67% of respondents held high perceptions of EDPs across various dimensions. Statistical analysis confirmed that EDPs facilitate skill development, address challenges, and enhance motivation. Perceptions varied significantly according to age, educational level, and years of entrepreneurial experience. The demographic profile revealed that most participants were younger (20-30 years), had a primary education, and had limited entrepreneurial experience (0-5 years). The study concludes that EDPs significantly contribute to women's empowerment in Darjeeling, while identifying areas for improvement in addressing diverse needs. This research underscores the importance of entrepreneurship development initiatives in promoting women's economic empowerment and suggests ongoing efforts to enhance their impact and inclusivity across diverse groups of women entrepreneurs.