Atma Nirbhar Bharat, the government-promoted and supported idea, is all about becoming technically and financially self-sufficient. It encourages new-age entrepreneurs to take risks and be assertive in their efforts to break through the glass ceiling. The government’s initiative is not limited to big-city entrepreneurs; it is intended for small-town/village entrepreneurs regarding village business ideas.
With more than 70% of the population living in villages and small towns, there are more opportunities to start new businesses in these areas. Because the majority of businesses in the rural hinterland are directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture or a related sector, there are numerous opportunities to explore and flourish over time.
Here, a question arises: can a government employee do business? Yes. Some of the business ideas that can be pursued in small towns are discussed further below for entrepreneurs to consider. Some business ideas for young entrepreneurs in small towns/villages include:
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A retail establishment
Because rural India is home to the majority of the population, there is a scarcity of well-planned retail outlets in these designated areas. The outlets can be of various types, each catering to a different segment of the population. Opening a Kirana store is one such simple and practical option.
The Covid crisis demonstrated the Kirana shop owners’ resilience and adaptability to learn and change in response to the new situation.
Flour milling
Another worthwhile venture is the establishment of a flour mill. In rural areas, there is no scarcity of raw material (cereal) for flour mills, and people do not buy packaged flour from markets in the same way that they do in urban areas. If you grind other grains in addition to wheat, such as corn, oats, barley, sorghum, and spices such as turmeric, chili, and so on, it is a very viable and profitable business.
Manufacturing on a small scale
Rural and small-town areas are ideal places to establish small-scale manufacturing units to meet local demand while also supplying products to nearby towns and cities.
The clothing store
In villages, people frequently travel to big cities to buy clothes for special occasions or for daily needs. Starting a clothing store with good brands, fabrics, and variety is a sure bet for success, as long as the owner has good contacts with garment suppliers and the supply chain is intact.
There will be a high demand for your products in the villages and small towns if you can provide the latest fashions, design, and style of clothing.
Farming/poultry
The poultry farming industry is rapidly expanding, aided by the government . It also requires little capital and little land. But, to manage a business, one needs experience. Large rural and urban demand for poultry products helps reduce return on investment. You can start with a small number of birds and gradually expand the quality and variety of birds. You can advertise and sell the meat/eggs in cities.
Organic fruits and vegetables
The organic fruits and vegetable market is rapidly expanding, and living near villages and small towns provides an excellent business opportunity to begin growing and marketing the produce. However, starting a business is difficult because it necessitates farmland or a contract with farmers to grow the produce.