The President of India recently marked the 25th anniversary of Kudumbashree, the country’s largest Self-Help Group (SHG). A special handbook “chuvadu” (meaning footsteps) was released by the president that showcases the future plans of the movement and applauds its accomplishments to date.
Overview of Kudumbashree
Kudumbashree, meaning ‘family prosperity’ in Malayalam, was established in Kerala in 1997. The initiative was set up with a clear goal: to eradicate poverty and empower women. The mission received backing from both the Government of India and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
The Operational Model of Kudumbashree
The mission operates via a three-tier structure comprising Neighbourhood Groups (NHGs), Area Development Societies (ADS), and Community Development Societies (CDS). These structures enable a large network of Self-Help Groups, all working together in a bid to improve socio-economic conditions.
The Aims and Impact of Kudumbashree
Kudumbashree aims to eliminate absolute poverty within a decade, with the active assistance of local self-governments. Not only has the initiative been successful in empowering women and generating employment, but it has also been responsible for numerous social initiatives. For instance, during a devastating flood in Kerala five years ago, Kudumbashree members, many of whom were victims themselves, donated Rs 7 crore to the Chief Minister’s distress relief fund.
Exploring the Concept of SHGs
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are informal associations of people with similar socio-economic backgrounds who join together to improve their living conditions. The concept of SHGs rests on the principle of “Self Help” and aims to encourage self-employment and poverty alleviation.
The Role of SHGs
SHGs play a critical role in building functional capacities among the poor, resolving conflicts, providing collateral-free loans, and working as a collective guarantee system for members who propose to borrow from organised sources. The collective savings of the poor are deposited in banks, providing them with easy access to loans to start their micro unit enterprise.
Role of SHGs in Women Empowerment and Fighting Poverty
SHGs help economically empower women by creating independent sources of income. They also encourage women to challenge social norms and take on decision-making roles. Furthermore, SHGs help improve women’s socio-economic status, provide access to financial services, and support the establishment of micro-enterprises.
Government Initiatives Related to Women Empowerment and Poverty Alleviation
Several initiatives have been introduced to support women empowerment and poverty alleviation. These include Ujjawala Yojna, Swadhar Greh, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra Scheme, Mahila e-haat, Mahila Bank, Mahila Coir Yojana, Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), and Support to Training and Employment Programme for Women (STEP).
While microfinancing of women SHGs can indeed help break the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition, it is essential to back these endeavours up with comprehensive support systems, education, and vocational training for optimum results.
