The Research Dialogue

Author(s) : Mr. Narendra Behera¹, Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma²

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64880/theresearchdialogue.v5i2.32

Abstract

The study examines the relationship between socio-economic status and entrepreneurship awareness among tribal areas in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu. This study was using a mixed-methods research process. Despite numerous government scheme aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and improving the livelihoods of Scheduled Tribes, the level of awareness, participation, and entrepreneurial development remains uneven across tribal populations. The study integrates quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions to provide a comprehensive understanding of the socio-economic status, entrepreneurial awareness, opportunities, and obstacle experienced by tribal households. The quantitative component analyses demographic characteristics, education, occupation, income, access to financial services, government schemes, and entrepreneurial intentions, while the qualitative component explores perceptions, cultural influences, institutional benefits, and challenges related to enterprise development. The findings are expected to reveal that education, household income, access to training, financial inclusion and awareness of government entrepreneurship programmes significantly influence entrepreneurial awareness and participation. The study identifies major constraints, including inadequate market access, limited financial literacy, insufficient institutional support, and socio-cultural barriers that hinder entrepreneurial growth. The research concludes by recommending targeted entrepreneurship education, skill development programmes, improved access to credit, stronger institutional support, and culturally sensitive policy interventions to promote sustainable tribal entrepreneurship and socio-economic empowerment in the Nilgiri District. The study contributes to the existing literature by offering empirical evidence for policymakers, development agencies, and researchers working towards inclusive and sustainable tribal development.

Keywords: socio-economic status, entrepreneurship awareness, Scheduled Tribes.

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