A Study on the Challenges and Opportunities Towards Empowerment of Women Through Self Help Groups in Nagapattinam District

Abstract

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) play a vital role in empowerment of women through savings, access to credit, literacy and revenue generating activities. The present study is an attempt to analyze the obstacles and potential of women’s empowerment through SHGs. It concerns savings, access to credit, literacy, income generation and decision-making. The report also outlines key barriers and possibilities to enhance women’s independencePurpose:The study intends to investigate the role of SHGs in women empowerment and to identify the primary obstacles and opportunities experienced by SHG members Design/Methodology/Approach:The design of the research is descriptive and analytical. Primary data will be acquired from women SHG members using structured questionnaire. Secondary data would be acquired from books, journals, Government reports and publications of NABARD. Data analysis will employ percentage, weighted mean, ranking and suitable statistical tests. FindingIt is planned to demonstrate the beneficial impact of SHGs on women’s savings, access to credit, literacy and income-generating activities. But poor credit, low literacy, lack of training and market-related obstacles may still be substantial challenges. There is scope to improve women’s empowerment by enhancing bank links, skill development, government schemes and digital services.