WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Microfinance has emerged as a powerful instrument for promoting financial inclusion and empowering women in rural areas. The present study examines the role of microfinance institutions and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in improving the economic and social empowerment of women in Dabha village of Amravati District. The study focuses on understanding how access to microfinance services influences women’s income levels, business development, decision-making ability, and social status. Primary data were collected from 50 women respondents using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis and the chi-square test were used to analyse the data and test the hypothesis. The findings of the study reveal that a majority of women experienced improvement in their earning power and were able to start or expand small businesses with the help of microfinance loans. Most respondents reported increased confidence, self-reliance, and participation in household and social decisions after joining SHGs. The chi-square test results indicate a significant positive impact of microfinance and SHGs on women empowerment, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. Despite some challenges such as lack of awareness and financial constraints, microfinance has contributed significantly to economic stability and improved social status of women. The study concludes that microfinance and SHGs are effective tools for empowering rural women and recommends strengthening training, awareness, and institutional support for sustainable development.