ABSTRACT

Economic growth and development of any nation is determined by its human, physical and financial resources. An economy can move on to higher levels of growth & development by either acquiring a larger quantum of resources or through technical progress. Of all the resources that are needed for production, undoubtedly human resources are the most important. Physical resources may set the nation rolling on the path of growth but it is human resources which can accelerate this development. History is replete with examples where countries rich in natural resources have failed to develop because entrepreneurship is lacking. The economic development of any nation is sparked largely by its enterprising spirit. The entrepreneur not only earns his livelihood but also generates employment & income for others, making themselves invaluable assets of society. When one speaks of entrepreneurship, it’s generally the male gender that comes to our minds as enterprising, motivated, knows the market well, are mobile, and so on and so forth. But, however, women entrepreneurs per se could also play a crucial role in the economic growth of the country by generating income & employment. The present study, conducted in Puri district, Odisha, throws light on some women entrepreneurs who have dared to go out of their home & hearth, set up business enterprises and contribute to the family’s income. The journey for them, however, has been far from smooth and hence this study focuses on the problems faced by them and suggests strategies that would contribute to their success.