An Empirical Case Study of Sada Shiv Modern Group in Kandi Area of Punjab

Self help groups (SHGs) have been instrumental in women empowerment by enabling them to work
together. Members engaged in food processing activities have the potential to empower them through
the capacity building that underpins sustainable agriculture. The findings of the study reveals that
women who never used to step outside the four walls of their home is now becoming business women
and supplementing their family income. The results indicates that majority of the respondents are
young, matriculates, labourers, belongs to SC category, have family size of 4-6 members and earn up
to Rs. 65000 per annum. The economic benefits gained from enrolling in the groups are found to be
high in terms of selling products individually, understand banking operations to avail credit facility,
develop courage to think independently, understand group activity and manage group activities after
joining the group. Furthermore the social empowerment of the members in terms of team spirit, talking
freely within family, confidence in dealing with people is enhanced. It indicates that self help groups
bring economic upliftment, leadership skills in managing the group and inculcate great confidence in
the members of selected groups to succeed in their day to day life.