Celebrating independence –
15th August is one of the most memorable days in the history of India. It is the day which every Indian values, because it was on this day 75 years ago that we were granted what was rightfully ours – our land, our freedom! Today, while celebrating our Independence Day, Sheatwork, takes the opportunity to reiterate the unshakeable respect we have for our freedom fighters and also acknowledge the contribution of independent daughters of India who are propelling the nation on the growth trajectory.
Women in Independent India –
Historically speaking, entrepreneurship has been a male driven enterprise. However, with women empowered to create their own businesses, that is rapidly changing. If talking about the women’s status in Independent India, then it has surely improved. The structural and cultural changes in India have brought in many opportunities for women in the fields of education, employment, politics and entrepreneurship. It is observed that women participation in entrepreneurial activities not only aids their family income but also plays a significant role in economic development and social well-being of the society. Naina Lal Kidwai, the first Indian woman entrepreneur, was also a banker, Chartered Accountant, business executive and a former President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The nation needs more women like Naina Lal and thankfully, many have indeed followed suit.
Indian women entrepreneurs – a force to reckon with.
The Constitution of India guarantees equal status to all citizens of India including women under article 14 and does not distinguish or discriminate. This is proof enough of the nation’s trust in the capabilities of women. Today, women entrepreneurs in India, have proved that leading a company all by themselves is not beyond their wit. According to the Women’s Global Entrepreneurship study conducted in US, UK and India, commissioned by Dell, it has been found that the ideal country for a woman starting a business could well be India.”
The advent of the current pandemic seems to have catalysed the women entrepreneurial growth in India and prompt them to unleash their entrepreneurial energies into start-ups. This is also serving the greater purpose of answering to the clarion call of our P.M. Narendra Modi, to make India ‘Aatma Nirbhar’.
Celebrating our she-roes
Many studies have shown that women-owned companies generate higher revenues than those owned by men. Clearly, women are more effective as a leader and are better at creating jobs. Whether it be empowering the idea of wellness or creating and curating in the fields of publishing, entertainment or investment sectors, women have mastered it all! Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Founder of Biocon Limited, Ritu Kumar – fashion designer, Aditi Gupta – Co-founder of Menstrupedia, Vani Kola – Founder of Kalaari Capital and Radhika Ghai are exemplary, self-made Indian entrepreneurs who have made us proud and the list does not end here!
Under the prevailing circumstances, for the Indian economy to get back on track, it’s not enough for some businesses to get stimulus checks. What we need is a focus on engaging and bringing up women entrepreneurs in order to build this decade’s successful businesses. It is important to highlight the accomplishments of successful women who have been trail blazers in order to inspire the next generation of women entrepreneurs who will help further build this country.
Jai Hind.