Authors: Aishwarya Raj, Priya Arya, Chandani Kumari, Khushi Kumari, Dr. Narendra Singh, Dr. Ajay Kuamr

Abstract: Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as a powerful tool for promoting financial inclusion, poverty alleviation, and women’s empowerment in rural areas of Ranchi District, Jharkhand. The study highlights that SHGs have played a significant role in improving the financial status of women by encouraging regular savings, providing access to affordable credit, supporting income-generating activities, and enhancing financial decision-making abilities. With the support of government schemes, banking institutions, and rural livelihood programs, SHGs have strengthened the economic participation of women at the grassroots level and helped them become more financially independent. The findings further reveal that participation in SHGs has not only improved the economic condition of women but has also contributed to their social empowerment. Women members have gained greater self-confidence, leadership qualities, awareness, and involvement in community activities. They are increasingly able to take independent financial decisions, manage household expenses, and contribute to the overall well-being of their families. Through collective support, regular meetings, and skill-development opportunities, SHGs have helped improve the standard of living of rural women and have contributed to achieving broader goals of social and gender equality. Despite these positive outcomes, several challenges continue to hinder the full potential of SHGs. Issues such as irregular income generation, limited market access, inadequate training opportunities, low levels of digital and financial literacy, and the persistence of socio-cultural barriers remain significant concerns. Therefore, there is a need for stronger institutional support, better skill-development initiatives, enhanced market linkages, and increased awareness programs to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of SHGs. Overall, the study concludes that SHGs have made a substantial contribution to the financial and socio-economic empowerment of women in Ranchi District and continue to serve as an important instrument for inclusive rural development and women’s advancement.

DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22641748