A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON WOMEN EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SELF-HELP GROUPS

Abstract

This systematic review analyzes the pivotal role of “Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in empowering women in India,” especially in rural and economically marginalized regions. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have been pivotal in promoting financial autonomy, social advancement, and political engagement among women, allowing them to surmount conventional gender obstacles. SHGs improve decision-making, entrepreneurial development, and leadership skills through initiatives such as microfinance, savings programs, and skill enhancement. Women engaged in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) indicate enhanced self-assurance, increased management of resources, and heightened participation in familial and communal matters. The research underscores the substantial accomplishments of Self-Help Groups, encompassing poverty reduction, improved social standing, and community advancement. Nonetheless, obstacles including geographical discrepancies, economic limitations, and restricted access to training remain. The research highlights the necessity for specific interventions, including digital literacy initiatives, capacity-building workshops, and fair policy frameworks, to overcome these obstacles and enhance the effectiveness of SHGs. By enabling women to engage more actively in economic, social, and political domains, SHGs play a crucial role in promoting gender equality and sustainable development. This study highlights that SHGs serve not just as financial instruments but also as comprehensive platforms for facilitating social transformation and fostering inclusive growth, making them essential to India's progress.