Motivators and Barriers in Functioning of the Women Self-help Groups in a Rural Block of Odisha, India: A Qualitative Study

Abstract Background: Women’s self-help groups are one of the initiatives for women’s empowerment. Promoting various socio-economic activities by women in self-help groups (SHGs) helps them achieve economic independence and social empowerment. This study aimed to identify the motivators and barriers women face when working in SHGs in a rural block of Odisha. Materials and Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in the Saharapada block of Keonjhar district in Odisha in 2021 among the members of SHGs. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide for in-depth interviews (IDIs) and a focus group discussion (FGD) guide. Thematic analysis of the data collected through 7 IDIs and 2 FGDs was done using Atlas.ti software. Results: The Themes that emerged as motivators for SHGs were financial literacy and acquiring new skills. The study also highlighted the barriers preventing effective functioning of groups, such as a lack of a dedicated training program, supervision and monitoring mechanism. Conclusion: A group of women put together in an SHG does not guarantee empowerment. For SHGs in India to realise their true potential in terms of empowering their members towards financial independence and income augmentation, handholding support in the initial period, training on budgeting and routine monitoring of the activities will aid in achieving the goals of SHGs.