In the evolving discourse on sustainable and inclusive development, social enterprises are increasingly recognized as pivotal mechanisms that bridge profit, purpose, and planetary well-being. This qualitative study explores how slum women entrepreneurs participate in impact-driven and environmentally responsible enterprises that promote self-reliance, echoing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The study is based on primary data collected from 30 participants (25 women entrepreneurs and 5 NGO/SHG representatives) across selected urban slums of Kolkata and Howrah, West Bengal. Drawing on semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions across selected urban slums, the research examines women’s engagement in small-scale green ventures such as waste recycling, eco-friendly crafts, and organic product distribution. Findings reveal that these women not only contribute to environmental sustainability through green jobs but also nurture inclusive micro-economies that foster community resilience and inclusive growth. Despite challenges such as limited access to finance, inadequate digital literacy, and policy barriers, their entrepreneurial spirit exemplifies grassroots innovation and self-empowerment. The dual burden of domestic responsibilities and enterprise management, however, continues to affect their work–life balance and growth potential. The study underscores the importance of integrating financial inclusion, gender-sensitive enterprise training, and supportive green job policies to enhance women’s socio-economic participation. By empowering slum women as agents of sustainable and self-reliant entrepreneurship, the paper highlights how inclusive green economies can harmonize profit, purpose, and planet—core tenets of a truly sustainable and Atmanirbhar India. Keywords: Slum Women, Social Entrepreneurship, Green Jobs, Financial Inclusion, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Sustainable Development, Inclusive Growth, Work–Life Balance
Jayasree Das (Wed,) studied this question.