IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT SCHEMES AND POLICIES ON THE INVESTMENT BEHAVIOUR OF WORKING WOMEN IN UTTAR PRADESH

Abstract

This study examines the impact of government schemes and policies on the investment behaviour of working women in Uttar Pradesh. Using a cross-sectional survey of 500 respondents from varied occupational, educational, and income groups, the research investigates how awareness of tax benefits, subsidy schemes, pension and insurance programs, and financial literacy initiatives shape investment patterns. Data were analysed using SPSS for descriptive and reliability statistics, while Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via SmartPLS was employed to validate relationships among constructs. The results reveal that tax incentives and financial literacy initiatives exert the strongest positive influence on investment behaviour, indicating that policy-driven awareness and education play a crucial role in shaping financial decision-making. Subsidy and insurance schemes also contribute significantly, though to a lesser extent. Among demographic variables, income and education emerged as strong predictors, highlighting the importance of socio-economic context in investment participation. The findings imply that government interventions not only enhance women’s financial inclusion but also strengthen their economic autonomy, risk perception, and confidence in formal investment channels. Overall, the study underscores that sustained financial literacy programs, coupled with effective policy communication and accessibility, are essential to foster inclusive financial empowerment among working women and to promote long-term participation in organized investment avenues.