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COMPENDIUM, IEEC-2023   ( ISBN : 978-81-967860-4-5 )
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Theme-4: Advances in Social Management in Agriculture and Allied Sciences

Economic upliftment of tribal farmers through rural entrepreneurship in interior districts of Odisha

Sweta Sahoo and Ashish Anand

Shree Krishna Bhawan, Near Trupti Plaza, Bhadrak, Odisha
swetasahoo735@gmail.com

Abstract

The study delves into the crucial role of rural entrepreneurship in driving economic development among tribal farmers in the interior districts of Odisha, India. Historically, these tribal communities have endured economic marginalization, constrained by limited access to modern resources and markets, impeding agricultural productivity and overall prosperity. Through a comprehensive mixed-method approach, combining qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and quantitative data analysis, the study investigates the impact of rural entrepreneurship on tribal farmers. Findings demonstrate that rural entrepreneurship has a profound positive influence on the economic landscape of these interior districts. Various entrepreneurial ventures, including agribusinesses, handicrafts, tourism initiatives, and non-farm enterprises, have created opportunities for tribal farmers to augment their income and improve their livelihoods significantly. By fostering local empowerment, facilitating skill development, knowledge transfer, and technology adoption, entrepreneurial activities have ignited sustainable growth among the tribal farming communities. The study further assesses the role of government policies, institutional support, and non-governmental organizations in creating an enabling environment for rural entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the need for tailored strategies to address the unique challenges faced by tribal farmers, promoting inclusive growth and equitable development. The integration of traditional knowledge with modern techniques, along with measures to enhance market access, play a vital role in unleashing the untapped economic potential of tribal communities. In conclusion, rural entrepreneurship emerges as a powerful catalyst for economic development among tribal farmers in the interior districts of Odisha. Through targeted initiatives and the collaboration of various stakeholders, entrepreneurial ventures can effectively bridge the economic divide and foster sustainable growth. By empowering the tribal farming communities, promoting innovation, and strengthening market linkages, rural entrepreneurship opens new avenues for prosperity, creating a positive trajectory towards inclusive and balanced economic development in the region.

IEEC-2023 at RARI (SKNAU, Jobner), Jaipur, Rajasthan organised by Society of Extension Education, Agra, India