A Review Study on the Impact of SHGs in Women Empowerment

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as a crucial mechanism for empowering women, particularly in rural areas. By providing access to microfinance, fostering leadership, and enhancing financial literacy, SHGs contribute significantly to women's socio-economic development. This paper reviews the role of SHGs in promoting financial independence, decision-making capabilities, and social empowerment. It highlights their impact on entrepreneurship, community participation, and household financial stability. Despite their positive contributions, SHGs face challenges such as limited resources, socio-cultural barriers, and inconsistent institutional support. Addressing these challenges through effective policy measures, financial inclusion strategies, and skill development programs can enhance their impact. The findings suggest that SHGs play a transformative role in improving women's status, reducing gender disparities, and fostering sustainable development. Strengthening SHG networks and expanding their outreach will further amplify their effectiveness in promoting women’s empowerment.