Role of Microfinance in Functioning of Women Self-Help Groups (SHG) Under Bank Linkage Programme in the Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Aims: To understand the functioning of bank-linked women-based self-help groups in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in two districts of the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. The survey was conducted from April to May 2021. The reference year for the present study regarding financial parameters and group-related information was taken 2020 – 2021. Methodology: A total representative sample of 360 respondents with 120 SHG groups from two districts of the Rayalaseema region was taken for evaluation of the functioning of SHGs. All the respondents taken for the study were women. A well-structured interview schedule was used for collecting the primary data from the individuals. Results: It is revealed from the study that, savings activity by SHG is a regular activity. Through SHG group involvement a considerable change is observed among women in terms of various skills i.e., decision making, entrepreneurial skills, competency, managing, credit handling, coordination, and planning. Conclusion: It is concluded that using group meetings, member involvement, savings habit, external lending, and starting up of own enterprise a significant improvement of leadership qualities, managerial ability, psychological wellbeing, financial upliftment, and improved living standards are observed among all the rural women beneficiaries. validate reliability.