Subhash Kumar Saurav and Vani Chandran
Division of Agricultural Extension, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
subhashksrv@gmail.com
Rural entrepreneurship plays a vital role in the economic development of a country like India, where a significant portion of the population resides in rural areas. It is through rural entrepreneurship that emerging nations pave their way towards becoming developed nations. Understanding the dynamics and potential of rural entrepreneurship is crucial for sustainable growth and addressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, and regional disparities. Rural entrepreneurship has a huge impact on local economies, including job creation, income generation, and poverty alleviation. It also contributes to inclusive growth and sustainable development by fostering entrepreneurship in marginalised communities and sectors. The growth and amplification of rural industries promote self-employment and make use of locally accessible labour and resources. Rural entrepreneurs face several challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, lack of market information, and institutional barriers. With its vast population possessing diverse skills, knowledge, and traditional practices, rural areas offer a rich resource pool for entrepreneurial ventures. Numerous government initiatives and programs have been launched to stimulate the growth of rural entrepreneurship, encompassing financial schemes, skill development programs, and the establishment of incubation centers. There is a need for an enabling ecosystem that nurtures innovation, enhances access to resources, facilitates market linkages, and promotes entrepreneurship education and training in rural areas. By providing the necessary assistance through training and sustaining support networks, NGOs and the government should encourage rural youngsters to explore entrepreneurship as a profession. Institutions need to place a strong emphasis on how entrepreneurship, innovation, and education combine to effect change. Collaboration among government agencies, private sector organizations, civil society, and rural communities is crucial for the sustainable development of rural entrepreneurship.