Rural entrepreneurship and its development are crucial for the upliftment of rural communities, stated Dr. Satishchandra S., Secretary of SDM Educational Society, Ujire.
He was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day Multi-disciplinary International Conference on "Rural Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies – A Way Forward", organized by the Economics and Rural Development Department of SDM College, Ujire.
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Satishchandra emphasized that national progress depends on the development of villages. He pointed out that around 60-70% of India’s population resides in rural areas, yet they face challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and migration of talent. In this scenario, rural entrepreneurship can serve as a viable solution, he added.
Dr. Balu Kenchappa, Ombudsman of the Reserve Bank of India (Karnataka), spoke as the chief guest, stressing the importance of a robust digital network for rural entrepreneurship. He highlighted access to markets and financial support as key challenges and suggested that NGOs like RUDSET should play a greater role in bridging this gap.
Entrepreneur and guest speaker Shashidhar Shetty Baroda underscored the significance of entrepreneurship. He noted that Dakshina Kannada offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs but lacks individuals willing to take the plunge. Expressing his support, he pledged financial assistance to 100 aspiring entrepreneurs with innovative ideas. He also shared his collaboration with the Ujire Gram Panchayat on an organic fertilizer project utilizing waste materials.
Dr. Kaliyappa Kalirajan, a retired professor from The Australian National University, Australia, addressed the gathering as a resource person. He emphasized that rural entrepreneurship can help alleviate poverty and hunger, making it indispensable for rural areas.
Presiding over the event, SDM College Principal Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde remarked that rural entrepreneurship contributes to employment generation and boosts the GDP. He noted that rural unemployment can be mitigated through entrepreneurship, citing the example of people returning to villages and starting self-employment ventures during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also stated that the conference would provide valuable insights to students of commerce, economics, business administration, and other representatives.
Dr. G.V. Joshi, Member of the State Planning Board and chief advisor of the conference, delivered the introductory address. The dignitaries were honored during the event. Conference organizing secretary Dr. Mahesh Kumar Shetty H. welcomed the gathering, while Dr. Ghanaraj K., Head of the Economics & Rural Development Department, delivered the vote of thanks. The event was compered by Ashwith H.R. and Ashwini Jain.
Over 300 delegates from various parts of the country participated in the conference.