A Review Study on the Impact of SHGS on Women’s Empowerment
Keywords:
Self-Help Groups, Women Empowerment, Microfinance, Socio-Economic Development, Rural DevelopmentAbstract
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as a crucial mechanism for empowering women, particularly in rural areas. By providing access to microfinance, fostering leadership, and enhancing financial literacy, SHGs contribute significantly to women’s socio-economic development. This paper reviews the role of SHGs in promoting financial independence, decision-making capabilities, and social empowerment. It highlights their impact on entrepreneurship, community participation, and household financial stability. Despite their positive contributions, SHGs face challenges such as limited resources, socio-cultural barriers, and inconsistent institutional support. Addressing these challenges through effective policy measures, financial inclusion strategies, and skill development programs can enhance their impact. The findings suggest that SHGs play a transformative role in improving women’s status, reducing gender disparities, and fostering sustainable development. Strengthening SHG networks and expanding their outreach will further amplify their effectiveness in promoting women’s empowerment.
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