Social Enterprises and Sustainable Development: Evidence from India with Special Reference to Kerala

This study examines the growing significance of social entrepreneurship as an emerging business paradigm that integrates economic objectives with social impact. In the Indian context where persistent challenges such as unemployment, socio-economic inequality, and the rural urban divide continue despite rapid advancements in digital and financial technologies social enterprises have evolved as innovative and sustainable solution providers. With particular reference to SELCO Foundation and the Chekutty Dolls Project, the study explores the role of social entrepreneurship in promoting sustainable community development in Kerala.

The SELCO case highlights how decentralized renewable energy solutions can enhance livelihoods, improve access to healthcare and education, and foster financial inclusion among marginalized populations. In contrast, the Chekutty initiative illustrates how grassroots innovation and upcycling practices can facilitate post-disaster economic recovery, support traditional artisans, and contribute to environmental sustainability. The findings indicate that social enterprises play a pivotal role in addressing complex societal challenges while advancing social inclusion, ecological responsibility, and employment generation.

Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of integrating experiential and research-driven social entrepreneurship education into university curricula to nurture future change-makers. Overall, social enterprises emerge as critical drivers of inclusive and sustainable development in India, with particular relevance to the socio-economic landscape of Kerala.

social enterprises, community development, sustainable development, SELCO, chekutty dolls.

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