Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are voluntary associations of women who come together to address common issues, support each other, and improve their socio-economic status. SHGs are based on the principle of mutual help and collective action, where women pool their resources, skills, and experiences to achieve common goals.
SHGs typically consist of 10 to 20 members from similar socio-economic backgrounds who meet regularly to discuss issues such as savings, credit, income-generating activities, health, education, and social issues. Through regular meetings, SHGs provide a platform for women to share their experiences, learn from each other, and support each other socially and economically.
One of the key features of SHGs is their focus on savings and credit. Members of SHGs contribute a certain amount of money to a common fund, which is used to provide loans to members for various purposes such as starting or expanding a business, meeting emergency expenses, or investing in their children’s education. By promoting a culture of savings and providing access to credit, SHGs empower women to take control of their finances and improve their economic status.
In addition to savings and credit, SHGs also focus on capacity building, skill development, and empowerment. SHGs provide training and support to help women develop new skills, start income-generating activities, and become more self-reliant. SHGs also empower women to participate in decision-making processes, challenge social norms, and advocate for their rights.
Women’s Self Help Group
- Economic Empowerment: SHGs enable women to save money, access credit, and engage in income-generating activities, thereby improving their economic status.
- Social Empowerment: SHGs empower women to participate in decision-making processes, challenge social norms, and advocate for their rights.
- Skill Development: SHGs provide opportunities for women to develop new skills, such as financial management, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
- Access to Services: SHGs facilitate access to various services, including health care, education, and government schemes.
- Community Development: SHGs contribute to community development by undertaking initiatives such as sanitation drives, education programs, and environmental conservation projects.
Document Required For SHG
- Formation Documents: These include the constitution or bylaws of the SHG, which outline its objectives, rules, and procedures.
- Membership Records: SHGs maintain records of their members, including their names, addresses, and contact details.
- Financial Records: SHGs keep detailed records of their financial transactions, including savings, loans, and expenditures.
- Meeting Minutes: SHGs document the discussions, decisions, and action points from their meetings.
- Reports: SHGs may prepare reports on their activities, achievements, and challenges for internal and external stakeholders.