Women’s Economic Empowerment and the Functioning of Self-Help Groups: A Field-Based Study in Gwalior

Abstract

The present study examines the role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in promoting women’s economic empowerment in Gwalior district, Madhya Pradesh. SHGs have emerged as a critical grassroots mechanism for improving women’s financial inclusion, income generation, and participation in household and community decision-making. Using a field-based quantitative research design, primary data were collected from 300 women SHG members across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas of Gwalior. The study evaluates changes in income levels, savings patterns, access to credit, skill development, and empowerment indicators before and after SHG participation. Statistical tools such as descriptive analysis, paired t-tests, chi-square tests, ANOVA, and correlation analysis were used to assess relationships between SHG activities and empowerment outcomes. The findings reveal a significant increase in women’s monthly income, financial literacy, decision-making power, entrepreneurial activities, and overall empowerment index after joining SHGs. Access to microcredit and training programs was positively associated with business income and skill enhancement. The study concludes that SHGs function as effective platforms for women’s socio-economic advancement in Gwalior and highlights the need for strengthened training, market linkages, and institutional support to maximize their impact.