To what extent, in your opinion, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in India have enabled women led development at the grassroot level?

Self-Help groups have been the driving force of women empowerment - socially, economically & politically - at all levels of society (Mohd. Yunus). SHGs as enabler of women development: 1. Financial security: Ease of accessing loans and formalisation of expenses. 2. Participation in decision-making: Women led SHGs have shown better results. 3. Continuous social scrutiny: The risk of embezzlement of funds has been significantly reduced due to social audits. 4. Participation in formal economy: Women led SHGs have been producing products etc according to demands of market.

5. Political participation: Women have been empowered politically as well due to regular involvement in gram Sabha etc. 6. Nutritional security: Funds in the hands of women have resulted in better nutritional outcomes for women as well as children. Some prominent examples include: Godda model textiles, Bhogya shree, Akshay patra food, etc. However, challenges ensue: Lack of export avenues, Regional models have not been replicated country-wide. SHGs have enabled women led development at grass root level. A more comprehensive participation of women can increase GDP by $311billion (World Bank report).