Role Of The Self-Help Groups In Empowering Women In India: A Socio-Legal Analysis

Abstract

The proliferation of self-help groups (SHGs) is a significant new grassroots movement that aims to improve women's social, economic, and political positions. These organizations help women become more self-reliant and capable decision-makers by connecting them with microloans, skill-building opportunities, and community resources. On a global scale, there are a lot of initiatives aimed at empowering women. The three pillars of democracy, i.e., Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, along with other organizations, have commitments towards the upliftment of women in India. Research on Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and their effects on the economic, social, and legal empowerment of women in India has recently grown in prominence as a subfield of socio-legal studies. This paper delves into the socio-legal implications of self-help groups (SHGs) and how they have influenced women's empowerment in India. In addition to improving economic situations, the findings show that SHGs boost women's self-esteem and social cohesiveness. Nevertheless, obstacles such as lack of finances, societal expectations, and legal constraints continue to be present. In order to empower women in the long run, the study stresses the importance of governmental actions that fortify SHGs and remove these barriers. With the hope of informing policymakers, NGOs, and other stakeholders about the efficacy of SHGs as a tool for women's empowerment in India, this study also intends to suggest ways in which SHGs might be better utilized to advance social justice and gender equality. By taking a holistic view, we can see the good and the bad of women's empowerment through SHGs.