IMPACT OF SELF-HELP GROUPS ON WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT: A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN NADIA AND MURSHIDABAD DISTRICTS

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have become a significant tool for women’s empowerment in India, particularly in rural areas. This report examines the impact of SHGs on various dimensions of women’s empowerment, focusing on the Nadia and Murshidabad districts in West Bengal. The study reveals that SHGs have significantly contributed to the economic, social, and political empowerment of women in both districts. Economic gains, mainly from improved access to microcredit, have led to higher levels of financial literacy, household decision-making authority, and social engagement. In Nadia, women-only SHGs have developed innovative operational models like the E-Shakti program for digital financial management and the SAJANI Project for grassroots leadership development. These programs promote deeper, internally motivated empowerment. However, obstacles such as limited access to resources, business connections, and ingrained gender standards persist. The study concludes with practical recommendations for improving the efficacy and durability of SHG programs for holistic women’s empowerment, including integrating gender sensitization, enhancing market connections, and replicating best practices.