Decentralisation and Development- A Study on Micro Enterprises of Kudumbashree in Palakkad District

Abstract

Purpose: The present paper examines the democratic decentralisation process of Kerala. However, the state is well known for its most active PRIs and people’s participation along with other social indicators. Here, the analyses of Kudumbashree, poverty eradication programme through micro- enterprises, which was launched in 1998. Democratic decentralisation has played a pivotal role in the development of whole country. In this regard, India’s 73rd and 74th constitutional amendment (1996) was a landmark amendment for democratic decentralisation nationwide, which is subsequently initiated in most of the state governments. Similarly, Peoples Plan Campaign (1996) has laid foundation for strong Panchayati Raj and municipal institutions in Kerala.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The research method is evaluative method, which followed both the primary and the secondary sources of data to evaluate the programme of micro-enterprises for women empowerment in the state Kerala. The present paper also explores the following objectives a) the structure and functions of Kudumbashree programme in the state of Kerala concerning its relation with local self-governments; b) the operations of micro enterprises under the Kudumbashree in Kerala with special reference to the Palakkad district; c) the economic change and social upliftment of women working in Kudumbashree micro enterprises.

Findings: Kudumbashree mission was a successful in many respects not only an anti-poverty objective but also women empowerment as well as strengthen grass root economy through self-employment. Under this scheme, the micro-enterprise for production and services flourished in entire state as per their local needs. The success of micro enterprises has provided livelihood and social status to the deprived class of the society.

Originality: The decentralisation programme in the state of Kerala has helped for the growth of micro enterprises under Kudumbashree. The women groups engaged in micro enterprises are active not dependent on state to deliver further. They have achieved the status of entrepreneurs as transformative agents for themselves and their community.

Paper Type: Theme Based Paper