Expansion of Private Business Space for theMarginalized Social Groups in India: Barriers and Challenges

Abstract

This paper explores the caste influence on private enterprise ownership in India. Drawing data from 3rd and 4th All India Census of Small Scale Industries, relating to time period, 2001–02 and 2006–07 respectively, the paper seeks to analyze how caste discrimination continues to exist and hinder economic participation for specific groups. The disadvantageous castes not only own a disproportionately low share in the private business economy, but also operate at low end activities with low levels of productivity and earnings. However, there are significant variations in enterprise ownership among marginalized groups across type and location of enterprise, scale of operation and a host of other characteristics.