LIVELIHOOD EMPOWERMENT OF TAILORING WOMEN IN WAYANAD DISTRICT, KERALA: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS

This study examines the extent to which tailoring, as a livelihood activity, contributes to the economic empowerment of women in Wayanad district of Kerala. Based on primary data collected from 100 women engaged in tailoring across three taluks, the study analyzes employment patterns, income distribution, asset ownership, and access to institutional support. The findings indicate that tailoring provides income and skill development opportunities but remains largely a subsistence livelihood due to structural constraints such as limited access to productive assets and credit. Regression analysis shows that asset ownership and employment type significantly influence income levels. The study concludes that policy interventions focusing on skill development, financial inclusion, and enterprise promotion are necessary to enhance womens economic empowerment.