V3I2P2

Women Entrepreneurship in Islam and India: Problem and Suggestions

Dr. Shafeeqa Bano^1*

Abstract

Women entrepreneurs play a significant role in initiating, organizing, and managing business enterprises, contributing to economic growth and social development. Entrepreneurship in Islam is encouraged for both men and women, as all lawful work done with sincere intention is considered worship. Historical examples such as Hazrat Bibi Khadijah (RA) demonstrate that women entrepreneurship is fully permitted and respected in Islam. In India, women entrepreneurs have shown remarkable progress, particularly since the 1990s, through technological adoption, employment generation, and participation in export markets. However, they continue to face several challenges including gender discrimination, limited access to finance, family responsibilities, low educational levels, inadequate managerial skills, and low risk-taking confidence. This paper highlights the major problems faced by women entrepreneurs in India and emphasizes the need for supportive strategies. It also provides practical suggestions such as education, training, counselling, government support, and NGO involvement to promote and sustain women entrepreneurship, ensuring equality and empowerment.

Keywords:

Entrepreneurs, Women, Problem, Suggestions