Types and Scales of Enterprises Being Run by the Women Entrepreneurs of Self-help Groups in Andhra Pradesh

The present investigation was carried out in three districts of Andhra Pradesh viz., Chittoor (from Rayalaseema region), East Godavari (from Coastal region) and Srikakulam (from North Coastal region) during 2016–18. About 63 types of enterprises being run by 240 entrepreneurs depending upon availability of natural resources and demand in the local area coming to a total of 286 enterprises. Provision shop (16.08%) was the main choice of the respondents, followed by Tailoring (13.29%), Dairy (6.99%), equal (4.55%) percentage with Small hotel/Tiffin centre and Sarees and dress materials/Cloth business and Fancy shop (4.20%). One-third (33.22%) of the SHG members running the enterprise with an income range of 50, 001-1, 00, 000. Only 0.70 per cent of the SHG members running the enterprise with an income range of 5, 00, 001 and above. More than half (56.99%) of the enterprises being run by the SHG women entrepreneurs were the primary sources of income for their family. There was a significant association between the types of enterprises and scale of enterprise.

The findings of the study revealed that majority of women were found to be involved in traditional activities as they were less risky. Hence, training on viable and challenging enterprises should be given to these groups thus decreasing competition in the market.