Social Interaction Pattern Within the Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Rayagada District of Odisha, India

Abstract

The role of women in society has undergone a transformative journey, evolving from compliant domestic roles to becoming crucial contributors to community development. Despite historical inequality, women have demonstrated their capacity to drive economic and social progress when given opportunities. In this context, self-help groups (SHGs) have emerged as a vital mechanism to empower rural women by promoting financial independence and collective problem-solving. This study focuses on the social interaction patterns of SHGs in the Rayagada district of Odisha, emphasizing their socio-economic profiles, institutional linkages, and collective actions. Using an ex-post facto research design, data were collected from 90 SHG members across three villages: Akhusingi, Anjali, and Arei. The findings revealed that SHGs are instrumental in fostering social cohesion, enhancing financial access, and promoting skill development. However, varying levels of education, income, and institutional interaction highlight disparities in empowerment and resource utilization. Sociograms generated for each village demonstrated the dense interaction patterns among SHG members and with NGOs, though connections with government institutions were limited due to educational and geographical constraints. Key actors within the SHGs played pivotal roles in disseminating information and resources, enabling collective action against socio-economic challenges. While agriculture remained the predominant occupation, participation in skill development events varied significantly, influencing economic outcomes. This study underscores the potential of SHGs as agents of change for rural development and women’s empowerment. It calls for enhanced institutional support, targeted skill development programs, and stronger governmental engagement to maximize the impact of SHGs on poverty alleviation and social transformation. This study is significant for the scientific community as it provides critical insights into the dynamics and effectiveness of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in fostering community development and empowerment. By employing innovative tools such as sociograms and analyzing group cohesion and individual participation, the study advances the understanding of how group structures and interactions contribute to collective decision-making and problem-solving.