Vol. 10, Special Issue 4 (2021)

Author(s):
Rashmi Tyagi and Jatesh Kathpalia

Abstract:
Women empowerment has long been viewed as the solution to many global problems especially in India when it comes to rural women. Self help groups can prove viable solution for raising the economic status of women as they are small voluntary association of people from the same socio-economic background with a purpose of solving their common problems through self help and mutual help. It can promote rural savings and provide gainful employment. Therefore a study was conducted to study the impact of SHG s on women empowerment. In Haryana, total rural population was 15868322; total no. of rural households 3159222 and a total no. of BPL household were 858389 in 2007. Sewa International in their report on women empowerment through SHGs mentioned that the most important change that the SHG culture has brought in the country is to change the gender dynamics of power within a family and ultimately the society at large and now they have greater say in the family matters and also are seen as stakeholders and partners in taking the community forward. The financial independence has eventually paved the way for soci et al. upliftment of women and their voices. The study was be conducted in Hisar and Karnal Districts of Haryana. A total of 120 respondents were surveyed with the help of well structured interview schedule The results revealed that 77.5 percent respondents had income upto 1,00,000 per annum and only 18.3 percent respondents below Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 2,00,000. It was also revealed that only 4.2 percent respondents had above Rs. 2,00,000 annual income. Regarding mass media exposure 49.2 percent respondents had medium level of media exposure. Regarding personal constraints 73.33 percent respondents reported increased work burden followed by 47.50 percent respondents who revealed non co-operative attitude of husband/in laws. Lack of family support was reported by 41.66 percent respondents and 16.66 percent respondents claimed that there was control of the husband over income. Regarding educational constraints 43.33 percent respondents reported of lack of timely information about govt subsidy (for purchase of animals/animal food). Regarding social and cultural empowerment attribute organizational skills have been given I^st rank as perceived by the respondents followed by awareness of rights which is given II^nd rank.