A Qualitative Study on Role of Self Help Group In Tribal Women Empowerment In Rayagada Block Of Gajapati District Of Odisha,India

Abstract

Background: Women empowerment is an essential precondition for elimination of poverty. Many International and National bodies have stressed on women empowerment giving attention to their participation in society, decision-making, education and health. In India, Self Help Group intervention has brought tremendous change in the life of women at the grass root level. Currently around 50 SHGs exist in Rayagada block of Gajapati district of Odisha and are successfully managed by women. Aim: To assess the role of Self-Help Groups in empowerment of tribal women of rural of Rayagada block. Methodology: It was a community based qualitatively study. Ten SHG groups were selected on feasibility basis. The SHG members' perception of improvement in different pre determined domains were assessed. Content analysis was done manually and the key findings were noted. Results: The key responses were 'increased participation in household decision making', 'gaining respect in family', 'increased savings', 'meeting family expenses', 'improved political knowledge', 'independence', 'confidence' etc. They said to have gained respect and trust in society and were able to plan for the future of their families. Conclusions: Self Help Groups played very important role in Women empowerment and should be promoted for economic development of the country.