Assessing Women’s Empowerment through Self-Help Groups: A Study of Personal and Economic Agency in Jabalpur, India

Abstract:

Empowerment is a multi-dimensional social process that enables individuals, particularly women, to gain autonomy and control over their lives. Historically, women have faced both struggles and progress in achieving empowerment. Globally and in India, institutional and systemic interventions have been accelerating, with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) emerging as a significant avenue for promoting women’s empowerment. This study assesses the personal and economic empowerment of women associated with SHGs in Jabalpur, India. Primary data was collected from 62 women using a modified pro-WEAI (Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index) questionnaire that measures both intrinsic and instrumental agency among women. Statistical techniques, including t-tests and regression analysis, were employed to draw inferences from the data. The analysis revealed that women under the age of 35 exhibited higher levels of instrumental agency and total empowerment scores. This can be attributed to generational shifts, advancements in technology, evolving gender roles, delayed marriage, and improved health and mobility. Additionally, women who had been associated with SHGs for more than 18 months and those educated to at least a high school level showed greater intrinsic agency, suggesting that government and educational programs can rapidly change mindsets, although financial and asset-related impacts take longer to manifest. Regression analysis further indicated that the presence of more working individuals in a household is negatively associated with both intrinsic and instrumental agency among women. The findings highlight the need for targeted government initiatives to empower older and less educated women, who may be underserved by current programs. Integrating financial literacy and asset management into SHG programs can further boost economic and personal empowerment. Tailored support for different demographic groups within SHGs can make interventions more inclusive and effective, promoting sustained empowerment and a more equitable society.

Key Findings:

The analysis revealed that women under the age of 35 exhibited higher levels of instrumental agency and total empowerment scores. This can be attributed to generational shifts, advancements in technology, evolving gender roles, delayed marriage, and improved health and mobility. Additionally, women who had been associated with SHGs for more than 18 months and those educated to at least a high school level showed greater intrinsic agency, suggesting that government and educational programs can rapidly change mindsets, although financial and asset-related impacts take longer to manifest. Regression analysis further indicated that the presence of more working individuals in a household is negatively associated with both intrinsic and instrumental agency among women.