WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND START-UP ECOSYSTEM IN BIHAR: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND CONTRIBUTION TO SUSTAINABLE RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Women entrepreneurship is a key driver of inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and gender equality, particularly in rural areas where women face structural barriers like limited access to finance, assets, and technology. Set against Bihar's predominantly agrarian economy and strong Self-Help Group (SHG) network, this study evaluates the transformation of women's enterprise in the state using data from sources like ASUSE, PLFS, JEEViKA, and the World Bank. Between 2015–16 and 2023–24, Bihar experienced a structural shift as the share of female-owned enterprises rose sharply from 4.9% to 20.9%. These enterprises achieve an average technical efficiency of 71.2%, with higher JEEViKA participation positively driving both ownership and efficiency. However, growth remains hampered by mobility restrictions, digital skills gaps, market barriers, and inadequate growth capital. To transition businesses from subsistence to scalable units, the study advocates for an integrated "SHG-to-Startup-to-Sustainable-Enterprise Model" to drive rural industrialization and support the Sustainable Development Goals.