ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN INDIA – ISSUES AND CHALLENGES (Volume III)

It is with immense pleasure and a sense of academic fulfillment that I introduce these proceeding of the "ICSSR-ERC Sponsored Conference on Entrepreneurship in India: Issues and Challenges," organized by XITE College. This compilation is a testament to the remarkable efforts and contributions of scholars and researchers who participated in the conference, which sought to unravel the multifaceted landscape of entrepreneurship in India.

Entrepreneurship, as a subject of study and a driving force behind economic growth and social change, has garnered increasing attention worldwide. In the Indian context, it holds even greater significance, given the country's rich entrepreneurial history and its potential to reshape the nation's future. This conference, sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), provided an intellectual arena where experts and enthusiasts alike converged to explore, debate, and dissect the issues and challenges confronting entrepreneurship in India.

The papers within these proceedings offer a comprehensive and insightful analysis of various facets of Indian entrepreneurship. They delve into the policy frameworks that shape the entrepreneurial ecosystem, examine the access to finance and funding opportunities, explore the role of innovation and technology, and shed light on the influence of social and cultural factors on entrepreneurial decisions. Moreover, they focus on the crucial themes of sustainability, social entrepreneurship, and women entrepreneurship, recognizing that entrepreneurship is not only about economic success but also about creating a more equitable and sustainable society. The case studies and success stories featured in this volume provide concrete examples of individuals and enterprises that have overcome obstacles and achieved remarkable feats in the entrepreneurial arena. These stories serve as inspiration and models for aspiring entrepreneurs and policy-makers alike. I must commend the contributors for their rigorous research, critical analysis, and thought-provoking insights. Their commitment to advancing our understanding of entrepreneurship in India is evident throughout the pages of this book. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR)-ERC for their unwavering support and sponsorship of the conference. Their dedication to fostering social science research in India has been instrumental in bringing this work to fruition.

In conclusion, "ICSSR-ERC Sponsored Conference on Entrepreneurship in India: Issues and Challenges" is not merely a collection of academic papers; it is a testament to the power of collective wisdom and collaboration. It is my hope that the knowledge and insights shared within these pages will serve as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and all those interested in the
growth and development of entrepreneurship in India. I encourage readers to engage with these chapters, to question assumptions, and to seek innovative solutions to the challenges that lie ahead. In doing so, we can collectively contribute to a vibrant and thriving entrepreneurial landscape in India. Once again, thank you, Dr (Fr.) Mukti Clarence and Prof. Sushmita Choudhury Sen, for your outstanding contributions and dedication making the conference a successful one. Your hard work and leadership have brought great honor to our college, and we are proud to have you as part of our academic family. Your roles as the Convener and Co-Convener were pivotal in shaping the conference into a platform for scholarly discourse and collaboration. Your meticulous planning, unwavering commitment, and attention to detail were evident throughout the entire process, from conceptualization to execution.