Women Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas-A Case Study of Kirat Self Help Group

AbstractIn India majority of population lives in rural areas where the position of women is still considered weak and totally dependent on the whims and fancies of men folk. However overcoming these odds, many rural women have empowered themselves through self help groups and other grass root organizations like Krishi Vigyan Kendras by acquiring various trainings. They have ventured into the challenging areas of entrepreneurship through preparation of local good quality products that easily gain acceptance among traditional product lovers. The achievements of Kirat Self Help Group in this case are many. Formed in 2016 under the leadership of Mrs. Rajinder Kaur, the group gradually grew with joining of like-minded women who were bent on changing the mindset of the society. Although they faced many challenges but through trainings in skill development imparted by Punjab Agricultural University, they started preparation of pickle, chutney, murabba, sevian along with detergent powder, dish washing liquid etc. The income earned through sale of these products gave them confidence and also respect in their own families. They also gradually helped their men folk with agriculture through awareness of new technologies and were also able to provide good education to their children. Their achievements have been discussed here in detail which will serve as a guiding light for others.