PROFILE AND MOTIVES OF WOMAN MEMBERS TO JOIN SHGS

Abstract

The study conducted in Gujarat’s Chhotaudepur district, 180 women who were members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) were surveyed. The results show that 45.00 per cent of the women were in the middle age group, with 32.22 per cent having a secondary level of education. The majority (82.25 per cent) were engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry, and 83.33 per cent were married. About 49.45 per cent had low levels of experience, and most families (60.00 per cent) had 5 to 8 members. 68.33 per cent of the women had marginal landholding size up to 1.00 hectare, and 62.80 per cent had annual incomes below ₹50,000/-. Moreover, 76.12 per cent of respondents belonged to one organization, and 40.00 per cent had access to fair market facilities. Mass media exposure was low, with 70.55 per cent having very little exposure, and 39.45 per cent had low participation in extension activities. A significant percentage of respondents (ranging from 56.11 to 73.33) did not have the opportunity to attend training sessions of various durations. Family support was high for 33.35 per cent of the respondents, and 48.90 per cent had a positive attitude towards SHGs. The primary reason for joining SHGs, as reported by 93.33 per cent of the respondents, was to supplement their income, indicating the importance of economic benefits in motivating women to join SHGs.