Focus on Women-Led Initiatives, Digital Access, and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
The Rural Development Division of NITI Aayog convened a National Seminar on ‘Strengthening Rural Microenterprises’ on 4th June 2025 at NITI Aayog, New Delhi. The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including policymakers, industry leaders, financial institutions, international organisations, technology providers, and grassroots entrepreneurs.
The day-long seminar focused on empowering rural microenterprises, with a special emphasis on women-led ventures. Discussions revolved around creating enabling policy frameworks, expanding access to affordable credit, and enhancing digital and market access through initiatives like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).
Participants stressed the importance of simplifying regulatory processes, strengthening last-mile connectivity, and adopting blended finance models. The seminar also highlighted the potential of institutional linkages, CSR funding, and e-commerce platforms in accelerating rural enterprise growth.
A dedicated session on gender inclusion showcased innovative efforts and success stories of rural women entrepreneurs, including the impactful work of ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from various parts of India. The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) was recognised as a key enabler in scaling such initiatives.
Key takeaways from the seminar included:
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The need for convergence of government schemes
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Capacity building of rural institutions
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Stronger multi-stakeholder partnerships
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Fostering innovation and sustainability ecosystems
The seminar concluded with presentations from young changemakers and leaders of green enterprises, underscoring the synergy between innovation, sustainability, and rural development. Placing rural entrepreneurs—especially women—at the centre of India’s development journey was reaffirmed as a national priority.
