EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SELF-HELP GROUPS PROMOTING CULTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

This research paper examines the “Role of Self-help groups in Promotion of Cultural Enterprises and their development in Himachal Pradesh.” This paper has been focused on three districts of Himachal namely Kullu, Shimla and Kangra, to see the extent of SHGs in promotion of cultural entrepreneurship in this Hilly State. The population of the study includes different SHGs that are remaining active in the cultural fields and 300 SHGs have been chosen for the analysis. A structured questionnaire was administered for the collection of data from various SHGs. The opinions gathered were subjected to descriptive analysis to check if there was any conformity in the role that were being played by SHGs in promotion of cultural entrepreneurship. The research investigates into three primary areas that are handloom, handicraft, and cuisine. These areas are some of the multi-layered aspects of the region’s culture and they form the core of study focusing on entrepreneur. Thus, it can be stated that SHGs have played a significant role in promoting cultural entrepreneurship in Himachal Pradesh. The conclusion shows that they continue to make functioning the preservation of arts and crafts, improvement of local culinary culture and promotion of cultural products. It was revealed that SHGs not only add to the financial development of the members but also play a part in Social and Economic development of the community. NGOs, Local Communities and Government agencies also provide support promoting their Cultural Products through organizing various trade fairs and other activities. All these efforts contribute to improvement of market appeal of cultural products and therefore promote cultural entrepreneurship sustainability.

Keywords: Self-Help Group, Cultural Entrepreneurship, Himachal Pradesh, cultural entrepreneurship sustainability, Cultural Product.