Trends and Patterns of Ownership of Female enterprises in India: Analysis of Fifth and Sixth Economic Census

Ownership of enterprises is an important step for women empowerment and for inclusive growth. Raw data from fifth economic census (2005) and sixth economic census (2013) provided by Central Statistics Office (CSO) is used to comprehend the changes in ownership pattern of enterprises by gender with respect to working age population. The analysis of the ownership of enterprises at all India level, at regional level and at state level by gender is undertaken which reveals huge disparity. Between fifth and sixth economic census there is decline in male owned establishments in rural sector. Source of finance by gender are also analysed. The analysis is concluded by highlighting probable reasons for disparity along with suggestions to improve the conditions of women entrepreneurs and eradicate poverty.