• G. Radha Ramani

The beedi industry in India is a significant sector that provides economic opportunities for women and marginalized groups, especially Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Muslims, in rural and semi-urban areas. Women, who form the majority of the workforce in the beedi rolling process, benefit from its flexible nature, which allows them to balance household responsibilities with income generation. Despite facing challenges such as low wages, health risks, exploitation, and a lack of social security, the industry serves as a key source of economic and social empowerment. Women's entrepreneurship within the beedi sector has emerged as a vital pathway to financial independence, social mobility, and community respect. This article explores the role of women in the beedi industry, the impact of entrepreneurship, and the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs. It also examines the support provided by the Government and international organizations, alongside success stories of self-help groups and tribal women entrepreneurs. While highlighting the challenges, it emphasizes strategies for empowerment, including better access to finance, education, mentorship, and digital platforms. The article concludes by addressing research gaps and the need for policy changes to further empower women and marginalized groups in the beedi industry.

Beedi Industry, Women’s Entrepreneurship, Empowerment, Marginalized Groups, Economic Independence, Social Empowerment, India

"Women's Entrepreneurship in The Beedi Industry: Empowering Marginalized Groups In India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no.74-76, March-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRGU06014.pdf

"Women's Entrepreneurship in The Beedi Industry: Empowering Marginalized Groups In India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no. pp74-76, March-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRGU06014.pdf