A Comparative Analysis of Gender Dimensions of Self-employment in India as Well as in Tamil Nadu

Rajesh Kanna Raji, Assistant Professor, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Arunachelam Palani P., Assistant Professor, Arulmigu Palaniandavar College of Arts and Culture, Palani, Tamil Nadu

Vikram Chandrasekaran Natarajan, PhD Scholar, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu

This paper examines the gender dimensions of self-employment in India and Tamil Nadu, highlighting key differences in participation rates, sectoral distribution, income levels, institutional support, and the impact of self-employment on women’s empowerment. At the national level, women’s participation in self-employment is limited by cultural, social, and economic barriers, with most women engaged in informal, low-paying sectors like agriculture, retail, and small-scale manufacturing. In contrast, Tamil Nadu showcases higher female participation in self-employment, supported by proactive state policies, a robust Self-Help Group (SHG) movement, and better access to finance and training.

While women in Tamil Nadu benefit from higher participation rates and somewhat more progressive gender norms, women across India face greater challenges in accessing resources and overcoming cultural barriers. Tamil Nadu’s success can be attributed to proactive government policies, a robust SHG network, and better infrastructure that supports women’s entrepreneurship. Despite these advancements, gender disparities in income, access to resources, and social constraints persist in both contexts. However, challenges related to caste, class, and regional disparities remain significant.

Tamil Nadu has a slightly higher participation rate of women in self-employment compared to the national average. The state’s policies, relatively progressive gender norms, and emphasis on women’s education and empowerment contribute to this. Women in Tamil Nadu are more likely to be engaged in entrepreneurial activities such as retail, food processing, and handicrafts.

In comparison to India, Tamil Nadu presents a relatively better landscape for women’s self-employment, but continued progress depends on expanding these benefits to all regions and social groups within the state. SHGs provide women with access to credit, savings, and peer support, enabling them to start and sustain micro-businesses. Tamil Nadu has implemented various schemes and programmes in support of women entrepreneurs. Mudra Yojana.