EBNW Story interviewed Alka Gaur, president of FORTI Women Wing. Alka shared her insights on women entrepreneurship. Dimple Arora interviewed her-
Q1: What is the status of women entrepreneurship in Rajasthan?
Alka Gaur: When we talk about women entrepreneurship in Rajasthan, we are lagging behind by approximately 150 years. Globally, women entrepreneurs contribute 17% to the GDP, which translates to around 632 billion USD. In India, only 35% of women work in offices, and of those, just 17% reach leadership levels. Rajasthan remains a remote area for women entrepreneurs. A quick Google search reveals very few startups led by women from Rajasthan.
Despite numerous government schemes, significant gaps remain. One major hurdle is the lack of zeal among women. We need a mindset shift to recognize that women are natural leaders and multitaskers. Homemakers, for example, are the best managers. If they can manage roles like FNB managers, front office managers, or housekeeping managers, they certainly have the potential to excel in entrepreneurship.
Women often drop out of their careers during three key phases: marriage, childbirth, and caring for senior family members. To address this, we need to train boys from childhood in banking and work culture, while teaching them the responsibilities of managing a home. Developing this culture will increase the number of women in leadership roles.
Moreover, women face challenges such as difficult access to loans, extensive paperwork, and a lack of networking opportunities. Established women entrepreneurs often remain in their comfort zones, missing out on the benefits of networking. It’s crucial for women to engage, interact, and learn from others to thrive in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Q2: How can the situation be improved and what is the way forward?
Alka Gaur: There should be more mentorship programs and skill workshops. Although the government has launched many schemes and provides funding for women in entrepreneurship and the private sector, awareness is lacking. We need to educate women and encourage them to step out of their comfort zones.
Industrial training with a stipend, especially for women from poor sectors, is essential. Many women have familial responsibilities and need support to pursue their ambitions. I’ve suggested to the government to incorporate skill programs in government schools, along with creches, so that women can learn without worrying about their children. This will help women become job creators instead of job seekers.
Q3: How do you feel about the Union budget’s announcement of creches and women hostels? Do you think more such initiatives should be taken?
Alka Gaur: Absolutely. Asian countries have a significant female presence in the market, and we can cultivate that culture in India too. In rural India, women often lack resources for childcare, so they carry their children while working. Creches and hostels are excellent options if provided with safety measures.
Cities like Bangalore and Mumbai are perceived as safer for women compared to Rajasthan, primarily due to a less orthodox mindset and better safety provisions. We need to ensure similar safety measures in Rajasthan so women can move freely, even late at night. Additionally, health checkups for cervical and breast cancer should be provided free of charge, as women often neglect their health. Healthy women lead to a healthier society, which in turn supports business growth.
Q4: What is your message to women entrepreneurs?
Alka Gaur: Listen to your heart and ignore naysayers. Be like the frog that is deaf and dumb but focused on its goal. People may try to discourage you, but treat their negativity as mere noise. Stay connected with your family, as their support and trust are invaluable. With your family’s backing, you can achieve any level of success you aspire to.