Author(s) :   Dr. P Bastin Arockia Raj¹, Dr. S Emaldarani²

Abstract : “Entrepreneurship is the engine of economic growth and a powerful tool for social transformation.” Entrepreneurship is widely recognized as an important means of promoting economic growth, employment generation, and inclusive development, especially among marginalized communities. Tribal entrepreneurship plays a significant role in improving livelihoods, reducing poverty, and encouraging self-reliance among indigenous populations. In this context, the present study examines the entrepreneurial prospects and challenges faced by the Urali tribal community in Erode District of Tamil Nadu. The study is based on primary data collected from 100 respondents using a structured questionnaire and follows a descriptive research design with a cross-sectional survey method. Statistical tools such as Chi-square test, correlation analysis, ANOVA, and regression analysis were used with SPSS software for data analysis. The study focuses on socio-economic conditions, entrepreneurial awareness, access to government support, and financial inclusion among the Urali tribe. The findings show that education, gender, and institutional support significantly influence entrepreneurial awareness and participation. Although there is interest in entrepreneurship, low literacy levels, limited financial support, lack of awareness of government schemes, and procedural difficulties continue to restrict entrepreneurial growth. The study concludes that entrepreneurship can contribute to socio-economic development when supported by education, financial inclusion, and effective policy implementation.

Keywords: Tribal Entrepreneurship, Urali Tribe, Socio-Economic Development, Financial Inclusion, Government Support, Erode District.

DOI: 10.61161/ijarcsms.v13i11.3

Pages : 28-34

*Authors are invited to submit papers through E-mail at editor.ijarcsms@gmail.com