SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS OF WOMEN FLOWER VENDORS IN PURBA MEDINIPUR, WEST BENGAL

The paper seeks to analyze how the socio-economic conditions faced by the women flower vendors act as an influential dynamic of empowerment. It is observed that the flower vending business affords relatively subsistence level of income to the women flower vendors. The income generating activities allow them to make economics as well as household decisions. The saving pattern makes them psychologically secure and the debt pattern reduces dependence on money lenders. However, for achieving such kind of transformation and security women are to grind themselves for five to six hours per day in the flower market. This article explores the scope of women in the value addition of flowers, the steps they can take to start a business, how they can generate income, and their critical roles in this flourishing sector. Statistical data and trends are also provided to underscore the growth potential in this field. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for cut flowers, ornamental plants, and value-added floral products such as dried flowers, floral fragrances, cosmetics, and wedding decor. Women account for a significant portion of the workforce in this industry, particularly in flower harvesting, arranging, and processing. However, the shift towards entrepreneurial ventures in value-added floral products presents a new avenue for women to generate income and build sustainable businesses. In this backdrop, this paper seeks to analyze the socio-economic status of women flower vendors of the Purba Medinipur District.