India, with a population that is almost equally divided between men and women, continues to face significant challenges in achieving gender equality, especially in rural areas. Many women, particularly in these regions, remain dependent on their male counterparts for livelihood and decision-making, rendering them voiceless in both the household and the community. While the connection between a woman’s economic contribution and her societal position is not always linear, it is evident that financial independence is a key driver of empowerment. In this context, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as powerful instruments of change, particularly for marginalized communities like
Muslim women, who often face double marginalization as both minorities and women. Muslim women, often marginalized due to socio-religious and gender-based barriers, encounter difficulties in accessing formal financial institutions and economic opportunities. SHGs have played a significant role in bridging this gap by offering a platform for microcredit, savings, and small loans, allowing women to start or expand small businesses. These ventures range from handicrafts and tailoring to small-scale farming, providing avenues for women to achieve financial independence. By engaging in income-generating activities, many Muslim women gain autonomy, contributing not only to their household income but also to their personal and community development. SHGs offer more than just financial opportunities, they create safe spaces for women to come together, discuss their concerns, and collectively make decisions. This fosters a sense of community and solidarity, allowing women to build social networks that can be vital in navigating societal challenges. For Muslim women, who may face cultural or familial restrictions on mobility or participation, SHGs provide a platform for leadership and decision-making, both within their families and in the wider community. As women take on leadership roles in their SHGs, they gain the confidence to voice their opinions, challenge traditional norms, and engage in public life.
Furthermore, SHGs provide access to vocational training programs, equipping women with skills such as embroidery, weaving, and food processing, which can be used for sustainable income generation. These skills enhance women’s economic standing and contribute to their overall empowerment. Additionally, SHGs often organize literacy programs, health awareness campaigns, and workshops on legal rights and government welfare schemes, making critical knowledge accessible to women who may otherwise be excluded from these resources. A notable impact of SHGs is seen in the realm of education. As Muslim women become more financially stable, they are more likely to invest in their children’s education, especially for girls. This creates a ripple effect, contributing to intergenerational empowerment and fostering the next generation’s social and economic mobility. In terms of health and welfare, SHGs also play a crucial role in raising awareness about vital issues like health and hygiene, family planning, and maternal care, topics that are often neglected in marginalized communities. One of the most significant contributions of SHGs is the sense of community they foster among Muslim women, enabling them to address sensitive issues such as domestic violence, gender discrimination, and early marriage. By providing a collective support system, SHGs empower women to confront these issues with greater confidence and resilience. Moreover, SHGs often serve as conduits for accessing government programs aimed at minority welfare, which many Muslim women may not otherwise be aware of or able to access.
Several studies have highlighted the transformative role of SHGs in empowering Muslim women. Seema Purushothaman and Avinash Das (2020) emphasize that SHGs provide not only economic benefits but also the confidence for women to challenge traditional patriarchal norms. Similarly, a 2015 report by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) notes that Muslim women in rural areas benefit significantly from SHG participation through income-generating activities and collective bargaining power. However, the report also points out that cultural barriers remain a limiting factor in some regions. Naila Kabeer (2011) discusses how SHGs offer a critical space for Muslim women to negotiate autonomy and enhance their empowerment, drawing parallels between the experiences of women in India and Bangladesh. P. Pandey and A. Jha (2012) found that SHGs in rural Bihar were instrumental in fostering financial inclusion for Muslim women, with participants reporting higher levels of economic independence and household decision-making.
Despite these successes, challenges remain. Cultural and social barriers still limit the participation of Muslim women in certain areas, particularly in more conservative or rural regions. For SHGs to achieve their full potential, more inclusive and tailored approaches are needed to address the specific challenges faced by Muslim women, particularly in conservative and rural settings. With continued support and expansion, SHGs can play a pivotal role in advancing gender equality and empowering one of India’s most marginalized communities.
-Resham Fatima
International Relations.
Jawahartal Nehru University