Socio-Economic Challenges faced by the Working Women in Saharsa, Bihar, India

Women actively involved in economic activities or gainfully employed are known as working women. Societal patriarchal norms have always decided rules for women's behaviour in every aspect of their lives. So, the present study explores the socio-economic challenges working women face in Saharsa district, Bihar. Saharsa is a region marked by limited employment opportunities and socio-cultural constraints. In Saharsa, socio-cultural norms often restrict women's professional opportunities, and working women encounter unique obstacles that affect their economic stability and personal growth. This study seeks to analyze the nature and extent of these challenges to understand the socio-economic barriers impacting their professional lives. A sample size of 75 working women, selected through purposive sampling methods, provided the basis for this study. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires and a schedule to capture both quantitative and qualitative aspects of the women's socio-economic experiences. Descriptive statistical methods were applied to analyze the quantitative data, while qualitative analysis captured deeper perspectives on how these challenges influence daily life. The results highlight that the majority of working women face persistent limited access to education, lack of employment opportunities, and lack of family support, which are compounded by familial expectations and traditional gender roles. The study also reveals that, despite these challenges, many women show resilience and determination, actively seeking ways to balance work and family life. These findings show the need for policy-making that addresses various challenges working women face and promotes work-life balance, along with societal support mechanisms to empower working women in Saharsa.