author(s)
Hruday Ballav Behera, Pranabesh Ghosh, Jyotirmoy Koley and Sanjukta Chakraborty

abstract
The current study seeks to evaluate the impact and future contributions of women entrepreneurs in the rural areas, focusing on their involvement in agriculture, rural marketing, microfinance, and Self Help Groups (SHGs). Women’s contributions in the agriculture field and microfinance are prominent. This study investigates how different factors affect women’s access to different resources, opportunities in the market, income generation, and overall improvement of livelihood. In the Birbhum district of West Bengal, women’s participation in agriculture and rural entrepreneurship is gaining prominent attention for its significance in driving economic growth, alleviating poverty, and promoting gender equality. The primary aim of the review is to advance gender equality, empower women, and support sustainable development in rural West Bengal, with a focus on Birbhum district. This study assesses the extent of women's involvement, the challenges they face, and the opportunities available to enhance their roles in these sectors. By connecting women micro-entrepreneurs' aspirations with practical business outcomes, the study explores the intricate relationships between women, business, SHGs (Self Help Groups), microfinance, and agriculture. Through an examination of different case studies, policy frameworks, and empirical data, this study sheds light on current trends as well as patterns among female rural and agricultural entrepreneurs, highlighting the unique challenges they encounter. The research focuses on rural self-employed women in Birbhum district and investigates the role of microfinance within SHGs in fostering entrepreneurship. Data for this study was compiled from various secondary sources, revealing several challenges in creating entrepreneurship through microfinance. Notably, high-interest rates in some groups were identified as a significant issue, prompting a recommendation for government intervention to address this problem. SHGs are crucial microfinance organizations that facilitate financial inclusion in rural communities. This study further examines how rural women’s empowerment through entrepreneurship aligns with social and economic dimensions, contributing to a broader understanding of their role in sustainable development.