Impact of the Udyogini Scheme on Women’s Economic Empowerment: An Empirical Study in Bengaluru

Author(s): BC Mylarappa and TR Thriveni

Abstract:

This study examines the impact of the Udyogini Scheme on women’s empowerment in Bengaluru. Implemented through the Karnataka State Women’s Development Corporation, the scheme aims to promote women’s entrepreneurship by providing subsidized financial assistance, skill training, and institutional support to women from economically weaker sections. The research evaluates whether access to financial credit and training under the scheme has resulted in measurable economic and social empowerment among beneficiaries. The study is based on primary data collected from 200 respondents, comprising 100 beneficiaries of the Udyogini Scheme and 100 non-beneficiary women entrepreneurs for comparative analysis. A stratified random sampling method was adopted to ensure representation across caste, income, and educational categories. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and personal interviews. The research employed a mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. Statistical tools such as Mean, Standard Deviation, Chi-square test, and independent sample t-test were used to analyze differences between beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries in terms of income levels, decision-making power, enterprise sustainability, and confidence levels. The findings indicate that beneficiaries of the scheme show significantly higher income growth, improved financial independence, and greater participation in household decision-making compared to non-beneficiaries. Training exposure and access to institutional credit were found to have a positive correlation with enterprise sustainability. However, challenges such as procedural delays, limited digital literacy, and repayment pressure were also identified. The study concludes that the Udyogini Scheme has contributed substantially to economic empowerment in Bengaluru, though strengthening post-loan support and market linkages would enhance its long-term impact.

keywords:
Women’s Empowerment, Entrepreneurship, Financial Inclusion, Udyogini Scheme, Karnataka.

Pages: 111-117     |    42 View     |    1 Download