Women, SHGs, and Entrepreneurship in Kalaburagi: Challenges Ahead

Abstract

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are voluntarily formed, informal associations typically comprising 10–20 members. These groups encourage members to save regularly and use the pooled funds to meet their credit needs. SHGs operate democratically, with decisions taken collectively. Since members usually live in the same locality and share common interests, the groups are generally homogeneous, fostering strong cohesiveness. Regular savings, periodic meetings, compulsory attendance, timely repayment, and structured training are the key features of SHGs. Global evidence from various developing countries indicates that the poor can significantly improve their socio-economic conditions when organized into SHGs. Microfinance and SHGs have played a major role in enhancing the economic well-being of the core poor, reducing poverty, and empowering women, which ultimately leads to the overall development of rural communities. The present paper, titled “Women, SHGs and Entrepreneurship in Kalaburagi: Challenges Ahead,” focuses on the fundamental characteristics of SHGs, their organizational structure, stages of formation, and meeting procedures, all of which have been systematically examined.