Self-help Groups Research Articles

An Overview of Solid Waste Management Practices in Pune, Maharashtra, India

The growing population and rapid urbanization are significant challenges for Indian cities. Pune City generates nearly 2,258 tonnes of waste per day. Pune’s informal waste sector has demonstrated remarkable efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and self-sustainability. Moreover, it contributes to favorable economic and social outcomes for the city. With the support of the self-help group SWaCH Seva Sahakari Sanstha Maryadit, Pune, the municipal solid waste management model has successfully achieved a remarkable 95 percent segregation rate. Implementing the Pune municipal solid waste management model showcases the active and efficient engagement of informal waste workers in the collection and resource utilization process. This underscores the possibility of favorable economic, social, and environmental results stemming from collaborations between municipalities and waste pickers. This paper looks at the role of SWaCH in line with Pune Municipal Corporation towards the present waste management system. Primarily reliant on labor, this model accomplishes recycling tasks at a notably lower cost compared to conventional mechanized and centralized waste management approaches. It can also accomplish high recycling levels and relatively considerable plastic waste segregation. Promoting the retrieval of valuable materials, especially plastics, for local and global recycling enterprises actively contributes to the advancement of a circular urban waste management approach. The objective of this research is to explore and provide a realistic understanding of Pune’s current status of waste generation, collection, transportation, and disposal. Apart from the SwaCH-PMC model, the paper also focuses on plastic waste recycling, the Red Dot Campaign towards sanitary waste, and household e-waste management in Pune.

Impact of Microfinance Loan Waiving Programme on the Microfinance Institutions in Assam

The present study was undertaken to analyse the impact of the recent microfinance loan waiving programme of the Assam Government on microfinance institutions (MFIs). It was found that although the loan waiving programme had no impact on the NABARD-sponsored self-help group bank linkage (SBL) programme, it harmed the MFIs. After the implementation of the programme, there was a continuous decline in the number of MFI branches in the state, as well as their client outreach and annual loan disbursement. Further, some of the borrowers stopped the repayment of monthly instalments of their loans taken from the MFIs with the expectation of such programmes in the future.

Exploring Socio-Economic and Socio-Psychological Factors as A Predictor of Self-Help Groups Dynamics Effectiveness in Debre Birhan, Ethiopia

The study intended to address a knowledge gap by examining the group dynamics effectiveness of Self Help Groups in the Ethiopian context. A correlational design was applied and 372 Self Help Groups members were selected from 60 SHGs through simple random sampling. The main data analysis methods used were Pearson's product-moment correlation and multiple regression. The result indicated that the attitude (r=.667, p<001), extension contact (r=.534, p<001), socioeconomic profile (r=.593, p<001), and social participation (r=.400, p<001) of SHG members had a statistically significant positive relationship with the group’s performance. The model (attitude, social participation, socioeconomic profile, and extension contact) significantly predicted and explained 59.3% of the variance in self-help group dynamics effectiveness. Attitude was the strongest predictor (β = .512, p < .001) & uniquely explained 18.5% of the variance in group dynamics effectiveness, while the socioeconomic profile of self-help group members was the least predictor (β = .106, P < .005) with 0.5% of unique contribution in the explanation of group dynamics. The findings further revealed striking similarities with studies in Asia, suggesting that the potential universalities and the function of self-help group dynamics may transcend regional boundaries.

Empowerment Dynamics: Exploring the Impact of Self-Help Groups on Rural Women

Purpose: This study aims to examine how Social Empowerment (SE) and Economic Empowerment (EE) affect Total Empowerment (TE) among women, using an ordinal regression method. The research seeks to explore the relationship between these dimensions of empowerment and their combined impact on women's overall empowerment. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study utilizes a quantitative research methodology, incorporating both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data are gathered via a structured questionnaire distributed to members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Kottayam District, Kerala. Secondary data are sourced from existing literature and financial reports. To analyze the data and examine the relationships between variables, statistical methods such as Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, ordinal regression, and Spearman's correlation coefficient analysis are utilized. Findings/Result: The results indicate that both Social Empowerment (SE) and Economic Empowerment (EE) are significant predictors of Total Empowerment (TE) among women. The ordinal regression model demonstrates a strong association between SE, EE, and TE, highlighting the importance of addressing both social and economic dimensions for women's empowerment. Additionally, strong positive correlations are observed between TE and SE, TE and EE, and SE and EE, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these empowerment dimensions. Originality/Value: This research enhances the existing literature by offering insights into the multifaceted nature of women's empowerment, especially within the context of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). By examining the impact of SE and EE on TE and exploring their interrelationships, the study offers valuable understanding of the factors driving overall empowerment outcomes among women. The findings highlight the necessity of simultaneously addressing both social and economic empowerment to improve women's well-being and socio-economic status. Paper Type: Empirical Research.

Consumption of Purple Sweet Potato Snack Bar and Self Help Group for Blood Glucose Levels in Patients Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world, occurs when insulin production in the pancreas is insufficient or when insulin cannot be used effectively by the body, so that blood sugar levels exceed the normal range. The increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus from year to year has increased significantly. Currently, diet management, exercise and the use of pharmacological therapy are options in the management of diabetes mellitus. In addition to this therapy, there is therapy by giving purple sweet potato snack bars and self help groups. Purpose: to prove the effectiveness of the intervention of a combination of purple sweet potato snack bar and self help group on fasting blood glucose levels of respondents with diabetes mellitus.Methods: This research is a true experimental study with a pretest-posttest design. This study had 60 respondents who were divided into 2 groups and were taken using non-probability sampling techniques with the stratified random sampling method. The study was conducted on March 12, 2022 – June 3, 2022. In this study, statistical analysis was carried out computerized. The pre-test post-test difference test uses the Wilcoxon test. Difference test between groups using Mann-Whitney. Results: This study showed that a significant difference before being given treatment with purple sweet potato snack bars 2x32 grams/3 days a week for 21 days and self-help group therapy for 3 meetings in 21 days showed a significant decrease from 173.30 mg/dl. to 130.03 mg/dl with a delta difference of - 43.267 mg/dl in the intervention group, while the control group also decreased after giving self help group therapy for 3 meetings in 21 days showing a decrease from 189.53 mg/dl to 163.83 mg/dl with a delta difference of -25,700 mg/dl (p = 0.033). Conclusion: Treatment in the form of purple sweet potato snack bar intervention and self help group had an effect on reducing fasting blood sugar levels of respondents with type II diabetes mellitus. type II diabetes mellitus patient.

A STUDY ON IMPACT OF MICROFINANCE INITIATIVES ON POVERTY ALLEVIATION AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Microfinance initiatives have emerged as powerful tools for poverty alleviation and community development. This study examines the impact of microfinance initiatives at the Ponneri Urban Co-operative Credit Societies Ltd (PUCCSL) on poverty alleviation and community development. The sample size for the study is 210. This abstract outlines the impact of microfinance initiatives on poverty alleviation and community development at the Ponneri Urban Co-operative Credit Societies Ltd (PUCCSL) stems from the urgency to assess the efficacy of these initiatives in addressing the pressing socio-economic challenges within the Ponneri community. The study investigates the impact of microfinance initiatives on income level, Self-Help Group (SHG) loans, microfinance initiatives towards employment opportunities and overall impact of microfinance on poverty alleviation. The data were collected from respondents through a well-structured questionnaire. The tools used are non-parametric tests (H- Test, U-Test, Correlation). Overall, the findings of this study highlight the significant positive impact of microfinance initiatives at PUCCSL on poverty alleviation and community development in the Ponneri region. By continuing to innovate and expand its microfinance offerings, PUCCSL remains well-positioned to drive further social and economic progress in Ponneri and empower individuals to build a better future for themselves and their communities. Keywords: Microfinance, Self-Help Group (SHG), Income level, Employment opportunity, poverty alleviation, Socio-economic growth

Raising Farmers Income through the Cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants

The present study was conducted during October, 2022 to April, 2023 in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh which is predominated by the cultivation of apple. Medicinal and aromatic plants are playing an important role in Homeopathy, Ayurveda and Unani medicines. Local inhabitants have been using these plants for various ethno pharmaceutical uses. Stratified Random Sampling was used for conducting the survey. Both Primary and Secondary information (data) were collected through schedules, questionnaires, face to face talks, personal interviews and group discussions. Societies and Self Help Groups (SHGs) were created for the cultivation of Saussurea costus (Kuth) and Aconitum heterophyllum (Patish). Local trader has purchased Kuth at the rate of ` 200 per Kilogram and Aconitum heterophyllum (Patish) at the rate of ` Rs. 2000 per Kilogram. In Delhi market, the farmers have received higher rates (`Rs. 300 per Kilogram for Saussurea costus (Kuth) and ` Rs. 2100 per Kilogram for the Aconitum heterophyllum (Patish)). On an average, a farmer was reported to earn `Rs. 50,000 to ` Rs. 100,000 per bigha per annum from the cultivation of these medicinal plants.

Constraints Faced and Suggestions Offered by Women Self Help Group Members in Cuddalore District, India

Women's empowerment is essential to ensuring equal access to opportunities and their rights are properly respected. This is accomplished by enhancing and expanding women's social, economic, political, and legal existence. The present study was conducted in Cuddalore Block of Cuddalore District. A proportionate random sampling procedure was applied to select 120 respondents. They were members of Mahalir's Women Self-Help Group. Thittam project under, the organizational efforts taken by the Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of Women (TNCDW) to define the constraints faced and suggestions offered by the members of SHGs. The study found that lack of awareness about credit sources, followed by a lack of adequate communication skills and more dependence on leaders are the major personal constraints faced by women SHG members. Also, insufficient credit facilities, followed by a lack of periodical training and a lack of marketing channels for selling their produce, are the major organisational constraints women SHG members face. Among the suggestions, the majority of the members offered to increase the loan amount, enhance the subsidy amount to the women members and create employment opportunities for women members.

Empowering Self-Help Groups: The Impact of Financial Inclusion on Social Well-Being

Financial inclusion (FI) relates to the access and availability of financial services to society, especially in low-income groups. FI is pivotal in achieving 7 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This paper explores the level of FI in the rural areas of Maharashtra and measures the impact of FI on the social conditions of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) prevalent in these areas. The study is based on a 424 SHGs survey conducted in the Pune, Thane, and Palghar districts of Maharashtra, India. The impact of FI on SHGs is evaluated using a Structural Equation Model (SEM). The results of the study show that physical banking services, Business Facilitators (BFs), and Business Correspondents (BCs) improve the social conditions of rural SHGs. Additionally, BCs and BFs mediate the relationship between physical banking services and social conditions. The study also reveals an insignificant association between BCs and BFs and insurance services. The present study highlights the importance of increasing the awareness of insurance policies through financial literacy programs and making timely availability and accessibility of BCs and BFs to enhance financial inclusion in rural areas.

Factors associated with health-related quality of life among people living with HIV in South Korea: Tobit regression analysis.

This study investigated health-related quality of life and identified factors affecting it among people with the HIV in South Korea. A total of 243 people living with HIV participated in this cross-sectional survey. Data were collected from five hospitals between November 2021 and August 2022 using structured online questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman's rho analysis, and Tobit regression analysis because a significant ceiling effect was observed for the dependent variable. The mean score for the health-related quality of life was 75.74 ± 16.48. The significant factors that positively influence the health-related quality of life were "employment" (B = 4.57, p = .035), "not participating in the self-help group" (B = 6.10, p = .004), "higher self-efficacy for managing symptoms" (B = 1.32, p = .036), "higher self-efficacy for getting support/help" (B = 0.95, p = .035), and "higher self-efficacy for managing fatigue" (B = 2.80, p < .001) in the Tobit regression analysis. The results suggest that interventions to increase self-efficacy should involve developing programs and policies for people living with HIV. There is a need for efforts to provide healthcare services linked to employment support, as well as to establish a social environment in which they can work without stigma. Further, self-help groups could be utilized as intervention channels.

Empowering Communities: A Socio-Economic Analysis of Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) serve as essential vehicles for community empowerment, particularly in regions facing socio-economic challenges. This study aims to provide a comprehensive socio-economic analysis of SHGs, shedding light on their pivotal role in community development. By amalgamating existing literature with empirical research, this investigation delves into how SHGs foster economic independence, social cohesion, and sustainable growth within communities. Through rigorous identification of research gaps and articulation of clear objectives, the study strives to deepen the understanding of SHGs' profound impact on marginalized communities. Findings underscore SHGs as catalysts for socio-economic transformation and pinpoint avenues for enhancing their effectiveness in fostering inclusive development. The insights gleaned from this study hold profound implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, furnishing them with actionable strategies to bolster support for SHGs and magnify their impact on community empowerment. Advocating for a holistic approach to surmounting challenges confronting SHGs, such as limited access to financial services, governance issues, and gender disparities, this research underscores the power of innovation and collaboration in surmounting these hurdles. Ultimately, this study accentuates SHGs' potential to spearhead sustainable development and fortify the resilience of communities.

Project Management Practices Effect on Self-help Group’s Project Performance, Hargeisa Somaliland

Most of the women found in urban-rural informal settlements of Hargeisa District are engaged in self-help group projects since most of them don’t qualify to access credit facilities from commercial banks and microfinance institutions. The main problem with development projects is they are managed poorly which affects their implementation effectiveness and efficiency. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of project risk management; monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder involvement, and effective project planning on the performance of SHG projects in the Hargeisa district. These are projects implemented by the NAFIS through its member organizations in particular SOWRAG. The study will solicit data from the NAFIS staff working with SHG groups in particular the MEAL and Project officers, SHG leadership, and members. A mixed method comprising quantitative and qualitative techniques was employed in the collection and analysis of data so that they allow the achievement of different objectives including offsetting the constraints that each technique has. This method was suitable for this study because first, it addresses the need to study women in complex socio-economic and political phenomena landscape. Therefore, this implies that most of the respondents were in agreement with the statements that project planning practices influence SHG Project performance in Hargeisa district, Somaliland. Average scores on the performance of the SHG project for the last 9-10 years in Hargeisa District, Somaliland show a mean score of 3.881 and a standard deviation of 0.775. This implied that the majority of respondents were in agreement with the statements that the project performance of the SHG project in Hargeisa district, Somaliland was successful. From research findings, it was concluded that the performance of the SHG Project in the Hargeisa district was influenced by monitoring and evaluation, risk management, stakeholders’ involvement, and project planning practices.

The Effect of Stakeholder Involvement on Performance of Self-help Groups in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The Effect of Stakeholder Involvement on Performance of Self-help Groups in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Comparison of the effect of a mother self-help group and a psycho-education for children group on coping with aggression in primary school children

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a self-help group consisting of mothers with children exhibiting aggressive behaviors and a psycho-education group involving children displaying aggressive behaviors on children’s aggression behaviors. Three groups were included in the study. The groups are consisted of child psycho- education group (experimental group 1), mother self-help group (experimental group 2) and child control group (control group). The students in experimental group 1 were administered an 8-session psycho-education program for coping with aggression. Participating children were aged 9–10 years. The self-help group was formed with the mothers of children in the experimental 2 group. The control groups received no interventions. The students’ aggression levels were determined using the Aggression Questionnaire, which was developed by Buss and Perry and adapted to Turkish by Can (2002). Children’s aggressive behaviors were mainly determined as physical aggression (hitting others, fighting, throwing pencils) and verbal aggression (threatening, shouting loudly). The questionnaire was administered as pre-test, post-test, and follow-up measurements to the experimental and control group students. In comparison to the psycho-education group, the self-help group conducted with mothers was found to be more effective in reducing aggression. When the post-test and follow-up scores of the psycho-education group and the control group were analyzed, although there was very little increase in the scores, a significant increase was reported in the follow-up scores of the self-help group. This finding indicates that the effect of efficient help could diminish in extraordinary circumstances.

Rural Women’s Response to Climate Change: An Exploratory Study of Women’s Grassroot Network in Odisha

The emergence of Feminist Political Ecological (FPE) position allows to rethink about social institutions like Self Help Groups (SHGs) as foundations for building green movements through everyday practice. The collective voice that has helped them emerge economically self-sufficient is reflected in their decision making, when the larger cause of climate change or environmental decision-making are involved. It is time that their actions permeating the ecology and environment gains credence and such coalitions provide ground as movements for achieving the larger collective agenda. Idea of SHGs as social capital helped the marginalized women create different ‘gendered subjectivities’ and endowed them with a collective voice, be it conservation of their own ecological settings or confronting the social system. The case of Climate Credit Pilot Project and/or conservation of indigenous seed varieties in remote villages of Odisha bear testimony to women’s consciousness regarding climate mitigation initiatives and the meaningful actions associated with environmental justice. Such interventions show that the embedment of economic, social and cultural values of SHG groups align with their instinct for attaining a larger goal of environment protection through household and community level actions. The gendered subjectivities including increased social consciousness among women, better access to new information, up-skilling has made them better and enlightened decision makers. The practice of joint or consensual action by SHG collectives enable them to address multi-scalar issues like climate change. However, the broader agenda of social and economic empowerment has to align with their decision making power relating to their immediate ecology and environment. In this context, the proposed study will probe emerging social consciousness of women on climate change issues, while examining their larger environmental responsibility in local situation, wherein the women remain at the receiving end. This is a field-based exploratory study of women from subsistence and indigenous communities of three districts in Odisha which interrogates the role of SHGs in creating a social space for women to engage with the question of environmental decision making. The study intends to analyse the field data in relation to environmental rights, responsibilities and knowledge of rural and Adivasi women within the institution of SHGs. It aims to formulate the concept, i.e., can SHGs be seen as co-linear spaces which needs to be strengthened as bearers of green movements at the local level as a response to the climate crisis.

Impact Of Skill Development Programmes On Social Entrepreneurship Attitude: A Study Among Self-Help Groups Women Beneficiaries.

Impact Of Skill Development Programmes On Social Entrepreneurship Attitude: A Study Among Self-Help Groups Women Beneficiaries.

Study of self-help group (SHG) on women empowerment in Bankura district of West Bengal, India

Study of self-help group (SHG) on women empowerment in Bankura district of West Bengal, India

Connessi e vicini: un gruppo di Auto Mutuo Aiuto per i familiari dei giocatori d'azzardo. L'esperienza sul territorio lodigiano

The GAP Local Plan (of the Health Protection Board) provides for a self-help group aimed at families of gamblers.In fact, Gambling Disorder (DSM V) does not only directly involve people who have a gambling problem but also their family members and loved ones; emotionally, economically and socially. Furthermore, the discomfort of the individual often speaks of a group dynamic, of collective suffering. In families the transaction is circular (Selvini, 1975).The Self Mutual Help group created is open to all citizens, as well as to family members of people who have already turned to the Addiction Service for a gambling problem.Self-help groups are based on the natural ability of human beings to be in relationship with each other and to support each other in times of difficulty and it is from these premises that this group also began.The article aims to recount, starting from the fundamentals of mutual self-help, the experience of the first AMA group aimed at family members of gamblers, promoted by the Addiction Service, in the Lodi area.The first observations can be useful for future years and to better develop an opportunity which has as its premise that of helping more and more people who find themselves facing a moment of difficulty.It is precisely the progressive discovery of gambling by family members that is traumatic, generating a climate of mutual distrust, cyclical experiences of illusions/disappointments, uncertainty that determines anxiety, fear and chronic stress (Capitanucci, 2012).The Auto Mutuo Aiuto group can help to emerge from isolation, increase solidarity, understand internal and external dynamics, stimulate new perspectives, bring out resources, feel capable and active. In the ecological-social approach, the family is seen not only as a possible part of the problem, but also and above all as a system open to the community, capable of exchanges and equipped with its own resources to be exploited.

Economic Importance of Hidden Child Labour among Poor Rural Families of West Bengal, India: An Investigation through Field Experiment

This article investigates whether school-going children’s participation as ‘not directly paid’ family labourers in domestic chores and/or economic activities helps their families to improve their livelihood in rural West Bengal. The findings indicate that the likelihood of hidden child labour is greater when the child’s father is old, the child is not an infant, the household possesses positive operational assets and the child’s mother is part of a self-help group. Parental positive attitude towards their child’s education can also reduce the incidence of hidden child labour within the family. The evidence from the two-step treatment effect model further suggests that hidden child labour helped their family earn a higher family income than households without hidden child labour during the reference period.

Intimacy as a competency: information-seeking practices in (marriage) migration online support groups

This article explores the use of online social networks for seeking and sharing information about marriage migration. In Europe, since the 1990s, this migration has faced heightened scrutiny. Laws and administrative practices have added complexity to immigration procedures. Manifold screening methods gauge the authenticity of relationships aligning with the host nation’s concept of a suitable family for integration. In this context, informal self-help groups emerged to offer support to those facing burdensome formalities and local administrative intricacies. Based on extensive qualitative fieldwork, this article examines the significance of these support groups, drawing on the concept of intimacy as a shared competency. Here, intimacy is conceived as an active relational skill that counterbalances the limitations of migration policies. The analysis transcends the division between online and offline modes of living, shedding new light on intimacy and extimité – the sharing of one’s intimate self with others for validation – in doing family.