WOMEN SELF HELP GROUP'S LENDING : A CRITICAL OVERVIEW

Women self-help groups (SHGs) are organized collectives primarily designed to promote financial independence and social empowerment among women, particu-larly in developing regions. Emerging from the Grameen Bank model introduced by Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh in the 1980s, SHGs gained traction in India during the 1990s, becoming a crucial vehicle for addressing poverty and socio-economic disparities among women in rural areas. (Ascent group : 2021). These groups enable members to pool resources for savings and lending, fostering a supportive environment that empowers women to start businesses, manage emergencies, and assert their rights within their communities. (Angel,& Seitz 2024). The significance of women's SHGs lies in their transformative impact on participants' economic and social status. By providing access to credit without the stringent requirements of formal financial institutions, SHGs have enabled countless women to improve their livelihoods and enhance their decision-making power. Studies indicate that involvement in SHGs is correlated with increased confidence, better mental health. health, and a greater sense of agency among women. (Kusum & Vidya :2023)Furthermore, SHGs often address broader social issues, including health and education, thereby promoting collective action against societal challenges such as domestic violence and gender inequality. Despite their successes, SHGs face various challenges, including limited access to training, financial literacy, and market opportunities, which can hinder their sustain-ability and effectiveness. The ongoing reliance on external funding and volunteer efforts may also threaten the operational capacity of these groups, particularly for the poorest women who may be excluded from participation due to social barri-ers. (Gender studies: 2024) Nonetheless, successful initiatives, such as the Kudumbashree program in Kerala and various cooperative movements, highlight the potential of SHGs to drive economic and social change, further solidifying their role as a pivotal force for women's empowerment in India.