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Agency, technology, and women’s entrepreneurship: A policy evaluation
This paper analyses the development of micro-entrepreneurship in India through the Common Services Centres initiative under the policy-driven Digital India programme. Using Sen’s capability approach, it evaluates how this policy bridges the digital divide, creates entrepreneurial opportunities for the poor, and advances women’s empowerment. Primary data from urban districts in Karnataka are analysed using two-period panel regressions to assess the roles of inputs, conversion factors, and agency in enterprise performance. Findings show that women have strengthened their capabilities and agency over time, achieving higher returns to scale than men. The study offers policy lessons for India and other developing countries to enhance women’s effective participation.