Subject: Governance

Despite having 9.21 crore women organized into 85.14 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs) under DAY-NRLM as of June 2023, these grassroots institutions face numerous socio-cultural barriers in effectively participating in rural development programmes.

Socio-Cultural Hurdles Faced by SHGs

Patriarchal Norms and Gender Discrimination

• Limited Mobility: Traditional restrictions on women's movement outside homes hamper their participation in SHG activities and market linkages.
• Male Dominance: Resistance from male family members regarding women's financial independence and decision-making roles in SHGs.
• Social Stigma: Women entrepreneurs often face criticism and social ostracism for breaking traditional gender roles.

Educational and Skill-Related Barriers

• Financial Illiteracy: Limited understanding of banking procedures, digital transactions, and financial management impacts SHG operations.
• Digital Divide: Lack of technological awareness and access creates hurdles in adopting modern banking and marketing solutions.
• Leadership Gaps: Inefficient leadership within SHGs due to limited exposure and training opportunities.

Institutional and Operational Challenges

• Group Dynamics: Internal conflicts, power struggles, and caste-based discrimination affect group cohesion and effectiveness.
• External Dependencies: Over-reliance on government agencies and NGOs for support hampers self-sustainability.
• Market Access: Limited exposure to markets and business networks restricts economic opportunities.

Way Forward

• Implementing Gender Sensitization programmes at village level through Gram Panchayats.
• Strengthening capacity building through NRLM's institutional training programmes.
• Promoting digital literacy through initiatives like PMGDisha.
• Enhancing market linkages through e-commerce platforms and One District One Product scheme.

The success of SHGs as instruments of rural development and women empowerment requires addressing these socio-cultural barriers through a multi-stakeholder approach involving government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities. Programs like Mission Shakti and NRLM must focus on creating an enabling environment that promotes social acceptance and economic independence of women-led SHGs.