by Sadia Raashid
The primary objective of this SHG is to support the rural poor, with a particular focus on empowering women across Kashmir.
In a world that is constantly undergoing transformation, one truly inspiring movement has emerged, showcasing the immense strength and unwavering determination that women can possess. This is not a revolution in the classical sense, but rather a quiet evolution that has been gradually reshaping the destinies of countless women across India. Amidst the numerous catalysts driving change, the concept of Self-Help Groups has emerged as a beacon of hope, embodying the indomitable spirit of women’s empowerment.
Self-help groups are voluntary, small group structures established for mutual aid and the accomplishment of a specific purpose. Typically formed by peers who have come together to provide mutual assistance in addressing a common need, these informal groups usually comprise 10-15 members facing similar challenges. By helping one another to overcome their shared problems, Self-Help Groups foster a sense of solidarity and collective empowerment.
Furthermore, these groups promote small savings among their members, which are then kept within a bank through the Self-Help Group-Bank Linkage programme. This arrangement enables the Self-Help Group to provide small loans to its members from their collective fund, thereby facilitating financial independence and stability.
In India over 60 million women have been participating in Self-Help Groups (SHGs), transforming their lives in profound ways. Through the power of microfinance, entrepreneurship, and community support, these groups have been redefining the notion of empowerment. By addressing the traditional barriers that have long restricted women’s progress, SHGs have been instrumental in unleashing the potential of women across the country.
Gandhi’s words resonate in this context: “Women are the noblest of God’s creation.” Indeed, the empowerment of women is a multifaceted concept that encompasses far more than just economic independence. It is about equipping women with the means to be self-reliant, possess positive self-esteem, and be able to face any challenging situation with confidence and courage. Empowerment is also about enabling women to participate in decision-making processes, as well as in developmental activities that shape their communities.
In stark contrast to the more egalitarian societies of the Western world, where women have largely achieved equal rights and status in various walks of life, India still grapples with the scourge of gender disabilities and discrimination. Despite some progress, women in India continue to face discrimination and marginalization at every level of society, be it economic participation, social participation, political participation, or reproductive health inequities.
In India, women have traversed a considerable distance in their quest for equality, and today, they enjoy a unique status of parity with men, as enshrined in the Constitution and reinforced by various legal provisions. It is indeed a matter of gratitude that the Government of India has implemented numerous acts and schemes, both at the central and state levels, aimed at empowering women across the country. These initiatives extend beyond mere education, providing women with financial assistance and thereby fostering their economic independence.
A notable example of this empowerment can be observed in the village of Bihar, where Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have encouraged women to engage in community decision-making processes. For instance, they have been instrumental in demanding better healthcare facilities, thereby demonstrating their ability to bring about positive change. A survey conducted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) revealed that women participating in SHGs were 40 per cent more likely to participate in local governance meetings than their non-member counterparts.
The evolution of the concept of Self-Help Groups has been a beacon of hope in the quest to empower women. By addressing the issues that arise from disempowerment, SHGs have the potential to bring about a profound transformation in the lives of women. These groups enable women to recognize and realize their unique capabilities, develop the courage to think and act independently and express their thoughts and feelings freely. Ultimately, SHGs facilitate the holistic growth and development of women, thereby empowering them to take control of their lives.
There exists a positive correlation between SHG membership and the social and economic empowerment of women, particularly at the grassroots level. By providing women with financial assistance, SHGs have not only made them financially independent but have also boosted their self-confidence, enabling them to realize their potential and achieve their goals. Furthermore, SHG membership has conferred upon women a sense of social status within their communities. In essence, these groups have provided women with an opportunity to shine and rediscover themselves, thereby giving them a new lease on life.
In addition to providing financial assistance, SHGs have also played a crucial role in raising awareness among women about their rights, entitlements, and participation in various developmental programs and economic activities. According to a report published by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in 2022, a staggering 85 per cent of SHG members in India reported that access to credit had enabled them to invest in small-scale enterprises, education, and agriculture, thereby facilitating their economic empowerment.
As part of my research, I had the opportunity to connect with a Self-Help Group (SHG) in my district, known as UMEED. Operating under the aegis of the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM), the UMEED programme is a centrally supported initiative that promotes women’s independence and self-sufficiency. The primary objective of this SHG is to support the rural poor, with a particular focus on empowering women across Kashmir.
A research paper authored by Gaiha and Nandhi (2005) shed valuable light on the concept of women’s empowerment. According to their findings, empowerment encompasses independence and the acquisition of self-confidence, greater respect within the family, a more assertive role in family decision-making, and enhanced buying and selling skills. However, the researchers also noted that certain practices, such as polygamy, patriarchal control over resources, and social norms governing reproductive responsibilities, can truncate the success of empowerment initiatives.
It is imperative that all stakeholders, including the government, communities, and individuals, work in tandem to address the challenges that persist. By continuing to foster and support these groups, we can envision a future where all women, regardless of their background, can lead their lives with confidence and dignity.
(The author is a recent graduate from Government Degree College, Anantnag – an emerging writer, passionate about shedding light on meaningful topics through compelling storytelling. Ideas are personal.)
