Role of NGOs in women empowerment: case studies from Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Purpose Women empowerment is essential for the growth and development of the nation. This study aims to identify the role of non-government organisations (NGOs) in promoting women empowerment through immediate livelihood facilities. Women are creative enough to start their own venture, but they are not able to explore the available opportunities because of male dominance, lack of education and proper government support. Thus, NGOs play a major role in training and empowering women to attain immediate livelihood. Design/methodology/approach The role of NGOs in empowering women has been explored using the case study method. A total of five case studies of women who attained training and started their own venture have been developed using in-depth interviews. Findings Women empowerment occurs through venture creation and entrepreneurship, which can be attained with proper training and information. Motivation and effective leadership help women in gaining confidence, and they aim to achieve their goals. Proper information about government policies, networking with customers, relationship with self-help groups (SHGs) and NGOs also help them in attaining empowerment. Practical implications This study indicates to the government and researchers that, instead of initiating new policies, it is important to focus on the existing policies and improve them. NGOs or SHGs must focus on providing immediate livelihood through venture creation or entrepreneurial activities. Social implications Women need to be more socialised and develop a habit of partnership with their friends and neighbours to extend their ventures (Dixit et al., 2020). To meet the demand of sustainable and green environment, women must be trained about green manufacturing and to prepare products which are environmentally friendly and sustainable (Agarwal et al., 2020). Instead of initiating new policies, government must review their existing policies and provide equal opportunities to increase female workforce. Originality/value This study focusses on the role of NGOs in empowering women by focussing on their immediate livelihood through venture creation or entrepreneurship.