Leveraging social capital and SIoT for sustainable entrepreneurship development

KARIVELIPARAMBIL MOHAMMED ASHRAF A., SAFAEI M., ZAHOOR H., El Gamil R. A. M., MUSTAFA N.

International Journal of Reasoning-based Intelligent Systems, vol.18, no.3, pp.155-173, 2026 (Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 18 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1504/ijris.2026.153556
  • Journal Name: International Journal of Reasoning-based Intelligent Systems
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC
  • Page Numbers: pp.155-173
  • Keywords: community health, CR, critical ratio, entrepreneurial skills, FGDs, focus group discussions, government interventions, indigenous knowledge, LAS, livelihood assessment schedule, SCAM, SioT, social capital assessment matrix, social internet of things, tribal development
  • Istanbul Gelisim University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The current research examines the combined effect of integrating social internet of things technology in entrepreneurial skill development programs for the Irula tribal community, Tamil Nadu, toward socio-economic upliftment. LAS and SCAM were adopted to collect data at the household level of 538 households, besides gathering qualitative information through purposive collection through focused group discussion and an in-depth interview of 60 participants. Quantitative results, as shown by paired t-tests and CR analyses, recorded significant increases in social capital and entrepreneurial skills following intervention. In-depth interviews, FGDs, and workshops brought rich qualitative insights into improved networking, innovation, and decision-making. Increasing communities' cohesion and resilience resulted in enhanced livelihood – this approach of the classic stability objective helped its growth, which is deeply credited for such livelihood maintenance and intervention. This study is likely to highlight the promising roles of SIoT in assisting underprivileged region inhabitants by improving resource availability and helping them towards better economic access. This research provides meaningful implications to policymakers and practitioners who are interested in using technology for community development programs to support tribal/indigenous populations.