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@article{187113,
        author = {Dr. Shweta Patel and Amit Agrawal and Krish Singh Thakur and Manav Agrawal},
        title = {SELF-HELP GROUPS AND THEIR IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {6},
        pages = {3466-3471},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=187113},
        abstract = {Self-help groups have become a driving force for change in the lives of women, especially in rural areas. By coming together in small collectives, women not only gain access to credit and financial resources but also discover a space where their voices are heard and valued. This paper examines how SHGs contribute to women’s empowerment by building confidence, encouraging participation in decision-making, and opening doors to new opportunities such as entrepreneurship and skill development. Beyond the financial aspect, SHGs foster solidarity, mutual support, and awareness of rights, which gradually shift traditional power dynamics within families and communities. The study also highlights the challenges that women face such as limited training, restricted market access, and cultural barriers that prevent SHGs from reaching their full potential. Yet, the evidence shows that when supported with the right policies and capacity-building initiatives, SHGs can truly transform women’s lives, creating ripple effects that benefit families, communities, and society at large.
The research also highlights that empowerment is not just about income but about identity and dignity. Women associated with SHGs often report increased mobility, greater say in household matters, and higher aspirations for their children, especially daughters. However, challenges such as inadequate training, limited access to markets, and persisting socio-cultural barriers continue to slow progress. The study concludes that strengthening SHGs through better policy support, financial literacy, and sustainable practices can unlock their full potential. When women are empowered, the benefits extend beyond individuals, creating lasting positive change for families, communities, and society as a whole.
The research also highlights that empowerment is not just about income but about identity and dignity. Women associated with SHGs often report increased mobility, a greater say in household matters, and higher aspirations for their children, especially daughters. However, challenges such as inadequate training, limited access to markets, and persisting socio-cultural barriers continue to slow progress. The study concludes that strengthening SHGs through better policy support, financial literacy, and sustainable practices can unlock their full potential. When women are empowered, the benefits extend beyond individuals, creating lasting positive change for families, communities, and society as a whole.},
        keywords = {},
        month = {November},
        }