Empowering Rural Women Through Corporate Social Responsibility: A Case Study of SEWA in India

Dr. Dibin Sekharan, Athira M D, Devika Balakrishnan, Remya R Menon

Abstract: This paper explores the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on the empowerment of rural women in India through the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA). Established in 1972, SEWA is a trade union that focuses on empowering women in the informal sector, particularly in rural India. This study investigates how SEWA?s CSR initiatives, including skill development, microfinance, leadership opportunities, and community engagement, have led to significant changes in the lives of rural women. The findings highlight the effectiveness of CSR in addressing gender inequality, enhancing economic independence, and fostering leadership among rural women. The paper also presents data from 2015 to 2020, illustrating the measurable outcomes of SEWA?s programs. This case study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on CSR?s potential for driving both economic and cultural change in marginalized communities.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Rural Women Empowerment, SEWA, Microfinance, Skill Development, Gender Equality, India, Leadership, Community Engagement

How to Cite?: Dr. Dibin Sekharan, Athira M D, Devika Balakrishnan, Remya R Menon, "Empowering Rural Women Through Corporate Social Responsibility: A Case Study of SEWA in India", Volume 14 Issue 6, June 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1013-1015, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25613145634, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25613145634