INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,  
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)  
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XI, November 2025  
Women Self-Help Groups and Sustainable Development Goals: A  
Case Study Approach  
Sonali Dhimmar, Dr. Meghna Dangi, Dr. Richa Agarwal  
Auro University India, Surat, Gujarat.  
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.1411000043  
Received: 10 November 2025; Accepted: 20 November 2025; Published: 06 December 2025  
ABSTRACT  
Self-help groups have evolved as effective grassroots tools for fostering social and economic development,  
particularly among marginalised groups. Poverty, financial illiteracy, a lack of education, and women’s  
disempowerment continue to be difficulties for rural women. Microfinance has been shown to be a transforming  
force in the fight against poverty, driving economic development. In India, self-help groups are at the forefront  
of these initiatives, as a crucial tool for empowerment and long-term change. Using a case study approach, this  
paper investigates the important role of SHGs in accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals. The study  
examines real-world examples to demonstrate how SHGs help alleviate poverty, promote gender equality,  
increase financial inclusion, and empower women. This study employs a robust mixed-methods approach,  
combining an extensive literature review with rich qualitative insights gathered through focus group discussions  
and in-depth interviews. The research engages directly with women SHG leaders across six talukas of Navsari  
district, providing a comprehensive understanding of their experiences and the transformative impact of SHGs.  
The study concludes that Self-Help Groups have effectively contributed to the achievement of several  
Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4  
(Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced  
inequality) and, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production). It highlights the pivotal role of SHGs as key  
drivers of inclusive growth, emphasizing their significance in fostering a more equitable and sustainable future.  
Keywords: Rural Women, Self-Help Groups, Sustainable Development Goals, Impact of SHG Membership  
JEL Code: O12, I32, I38, Q01  
INTRODUCTION  
Rural women are important in defining their communities social and economic conditions. They frequently  
confront obstacles such as poverty, restricted access to education, financial constraints, and disempowerment.  
addressing these concerns is critical for promoting equitable growth and meeting the sustainable development  
goals, in this environment, self-help groups have arisen as transformative platforms, particularly in developing  
nations such as India, where they are used for empowerment, poverty reduction, and long-term development.  
SHGs are small, community-based organizations that allow members, primarily women, to pool resources,  
obtain microfinance, and develop social and economic resilience.  
The National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) is a flagship program of the Ministry of Rural Development,  
Government of India, aimed at reducing rural poverty by promoting sustainable livelihood options. The founding  
and strengthening of Self-Help Groups, particularly among women, is an important component of NRLM since  
it promotes financial inclusion, skill development, and entrepreneurship. In Gujarat’s Navsari area, NRLM has  
played an important role in mobilizing rural women into SHGs, enabling collective action for economic and  
social empowerment. These organizations provide a forum for members to save regularly, access finance, and  
engage in income-generating activities. The NRLM's engagement with institutions such as the National Bank  
for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has improved the SHG ecosystem. A Memorandum of  
Understanding (MoU) between NABARD and NRLM aims to integrate efforts to promote women-led  
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development in rural regions by harnessing both bodies distinct strengths. The total number of SHGs in Navsari  
district is 11,336 with 1,12,927 members. NRLM’s work in the Navsari district has been crucial in promoting  
the formation of SHGs, so contributing to the broader aims of poverty reduction, women’s empowerment, and  
sustainable rural development.  
The success of self-help groups in empowering women and encouraging economic growth has made them a  
crucial method for achieving several of the sustainable development goals. SHGs have proven to be a strong  
instrument in solving some of the most serious global concerns, particularly those connected to poverty, gender  
inequality, economic growth, and health, by taking a comprehensive strategy that combines financial  
empowerment, skill development, and community participation. The experiences of presented SHG eloquently  
highlight how these grassroots initiatives are not only changing the lives of individual women but also  
contributing to a greater vision of sustainable development.  
LITERATURE REVIEW  
This part includes a detailed overview of the literature relevant to the study’s key concerns, with an emphasis on  
self-help groups, the effects of SHG membership, and their contributions to reaching sustainable development  
goals. It explores previous studies to lay the groundwork for understanding the role of SHGs in promoting  
economic, social, and gender empowerment while harmonizing with global development goals. according to the  
NABARD, self-help groups are "small, economically homogeneous affinity groups of rural poor, voluntarily  
formed to save and mutually contribute to a common fund to be lent to its members as per group decision." self-  
help groups play an important role in reaching the sustainable development goals by promoting economic  
empowerment, social cohesion, and gender equality. these organizations, notably in India, have emerged as  
powerful tools for poverty reduction and community development, with a direct influence on different SDGs.  
the following sections explain SHG’s important contributions to sustainable development.  
The participation of women in self-help groups has a transforming impact on women's empowerment and  
socioeconomic growth. SHGs are grassroots organizations that promote collective action, skill development, and  
financial independence, hence increasing women's autonomy and community leadership. SHG involvement has  
been connected to improved income and savings, with studies demonstrating that women who participate in  
SHGs have stronger economic stability. TP, Jisha., M., Sumathy. (2024) SHG membership increases women’s  
decision-making power inside the group, which is associated with their overall empowerment. Minaxi, Bariya.  
(2022) A research in Amreli district discovered that 40% of SHG members expressed medium levels of  
empowerment, compared to only 36.67% of non-SHG members. The comparison research found significant  
disparities in communication abilities and social status between SHG and non-SHG members, emphasizing the  
component of social empowerment. Linlin, Gong. (2023) SHGs facilitate financial inclusion by mobilizing  
savings and providing finance, allowing women to establish microenterprises. Jyoti., Rinki, Bharti. (2024)  
Participation in training programs conducted by SHGs is critical for improving women’s skills and decision-  
making capabilities.  
Self-help groups play an important role in attaining the SDGs by promoting economic empowerment, social  
capital, and gender equality. These groups, particularly in rural India, have played an important role in improving  
their members livelihoods, contributing to a variety of SDGs such as poverty alleviation, gender equality, and  
economic growth. This parts follow into greater detail about how SHGs contribute to sustainable development.  
Sripal, Srivastava., Jaideep, Sharma., Sandeep, Kumar, Gupta. (2024) SHGs provide microfinance, allowing  
members to begin income-generating businesses, resulting in higher household incomes and financial  
independence. Seema, Ghosh., Mousumi, Mahapatra., Neelam, Tandon., Deepak, Tandon. (2023) Studies reveal  
a positive association between SHG interventions and women’s economic empowerment, demonstrating SHGs  
success in improving economic situations. Priyanka, Verma., Sandeep, Raghuwanshi., Ekta, Mishra., Apoorwa,  
Mishra., V., Khare. (2024) SHGs promote social cohesiveness and collective action, which are critical for  
community development and fulfilling the SDGs related to social inclusion. Nikita, Arora., Rashmi, A., Chawla.  
(2023) The development of women’s self-help groups has greatly increased women’s confidence and  
engagement in economic activities, contributing to larger societal improvements. Shalini, Aggarwal., Mohd,  
Salman, Shamsi. (2022) SHGs play an important role in achieving gender equality by empowering women  
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socially, economically, and politically, thereby addressing SDG 5. Evidence suggests that women who participate  
in SHGs have gained more authority and decision-making power in their households and communities. Paul,  
Anand., Swati, Saxena., Rolando, Gonzales, Martínez., Hai-Anh, H., Dang. (2020), Raj, M., Desai., Shareen,  
Joshi. (2013) SHGs encourage microsavings and give access to financing, allowing members to participate in  
small businesses and agriculture. Evidence from India suggests that membership in SHGs has resulted in  
increased involvement in non-agricultural labor, increasing women’s income-generating prospects. Members  
frequently report improved participation in home and community decision-making processes, which promotes  
gender equality and empowerment (SDG 5). Health and nutrition education is frequently included in SHG-  
related programs, which has a direct impact on SDG 3. B., Venkatraja. (2019). SHGs improve social cohesion  
by fostering collective action and community development, which is vital for meeting SDG 10 (Reduced  
Inequalities). Tom, Henfrey., Giuseppe, Feola., Gil, Penha-Lopes., Filka, Sekulova., Ana, Margarida, Esteves.  
(2022) Educational activities inside SHGs boost members competencies, leading to a better quality of life and  
sustainable practices. Self-help groups are effective accelerators for attaining sustainable development goals,  
connecting grassroots initiatives with global aspirations to promote inclusive, egalitarian, and sustainable  
societies.  
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY  
this study employs a mixed-methods research methodology to completely assess the role of self-help groups in  
accomplishing the sustainable development goals in Gujarat’s Navsari district. the study uses a case study  
approach, concentrating on SHG programs in six talukas of Navsari district to investigate their impact on rural  
development, women’s empowerment, and economic inclusion.  
Primary data collection was holding focus group discussions with SHG members to document collective  
experiences, problems, and success stories. In-depth interviews were also conducted with around 25 SHG leaders  
and other stakeholders, including local leaders and facilitators, to acquire a thorough understanding of how SHG  
activities work, the obstacles they face, and the benefits they produce. Secondary data sources consisted of a  
thorough assessment of current literature, policy documents, and reports from organizations such as NABARD  
and the National Rural Livelihoods Mission. These sources provide background and assist the examination of  
SHG operations and their connection with the SDGs. Purposive sampling was used to identify participants from  
various socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring that the study represented a diverse spectrum of opinions and  
experiences within the SHG ecosystem. For qualitative findings, thematic analysis was used to discover  
recurring patterns and themes.  
Ethical considerations were central to the study process. All participants provided informed consent, ensuring  
their voluntary involvement and the confidentiality of the information given. The study followed ethical  
requirements for conducting human subjects research. The findings provide important insights into SHGs  
transformative impact in furthering SDGs. The methodology not only identifies SHG accomplishments and  
challenges but also provides policymakers and practitioners with concrete recommendations for improving their  
efficacy and scalability.  
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION  
The outcomes of this study highlight the transforming impact of Self-Help Groups on women’s lives, resulting  
in a significant increase in their economic independence, social status, and decision-making ability. Women who  
participate in SHGs have not only broken-down financial barriers, but have also emerged as change agents in  
their communities, propelling progress toward gender equality, poverty alleviation, and long-term development.  
This section digs into the outcomes, demonstrating SHGs far-reaching impact on altering lives and cultivating a  
culture of empowerment and resilience.  
In a small town, a group of women came together with a common goal, to lift their families, break free from  
financial reliance, and provide a brighter future for their children. These ladies, who were earlier confined to  
their houses, knew little about financial management or the world outside their hamlet. They had no access to  
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official credit, were not involved in any economic activities, and had significant difficulties in managing their  
households. But all changed when they joined a self-help group.  
Baa Masala Vara  
64-year-old women, began a revolutionary path of empowerment and community development using the self-  
help group methodology. Her narrative demonstrates how SHGs may promote financial independence,  
leadership, and community advancement. her journey began with a simple visit to the Navsari Nagarpalika to  
resolve a water issue, when she met the SHG leadership team. inspired by their description of SHGs and the  
government’s role in promoting such initiatives, she resolved to take a courageous move toward financial  
independence and communal development. Baa formed her SHG with 20 members, concentrating on group  
savings and income development. under her diligent leadership, the group quickly expanded to 120 members in  
4 years. The SHG, known as "Baa Masala Vara," specializes in the production of culinary masalas. Baa’s  
thorough team management, financial planning, and banking transactions helped the group build a strong  
operating structure.  
Gujarat Gramin Bank of Baroda’s cooperation was extremely beneficial to the SHG. From the cashier to the  
manager, bank officials were helpful, offering advice on beneficial programs and scheduling regular monthly  
meetings to safeguard the SHG’s financial health. The organization secured a loan of ₹40 lakh and received a  
subsidy, enhancing their activities. They save ₹200 monthly on an individual basis. This constant financial  
development enabled the SHG to open its masala shop, marking an important milestone in its journey. The SHG  
pointed out skill development and Baa-trained members.  
Navsari Nagarpalika also played an important role in scheduling additional training sessions. The SHG  
established a collaborative atmosphere, with communal decision-making and no member conflicts. Regular  
meetings with the bank and Nagarpalika strengthened the SHG’s operational foundation and created a platform  
for continued growth. Women in the group achieved financial independence, significantly improving their  
quality of life, and they celebrated milestones together, such as organizing a farewell program for a retiring bank  
manager, demonstrating their unity and gratitude. While acknowledging the government for its assistance, Baa  
also stated about requirements, such as sewing machines and baj dariya-making machines, to diversify their  
revenue streams. With continuous support and creativity, the SHG is set to reach new heights and serve as a  
model for community-led development.  
Women from Zupadpatti  
A 35-year-old woman from a deprived community in the Zupadpatti area demonstrates perseverance and  
determination. Ben, who married at the age of 15 and now has three children, endured tremendous problems in  
her early life. Her determination to provide a better future for her daughter, together with her membership in the  
Self-Help Group, transformed her life, enabling her to gain financial independence, confidence, and communal  
recognition. The journey began with government officials visiting the Zuppadpatti area and encouraging women  
to create SHGs. Ben and a group of ladies formed Ekta Sakhi Mandal with their help and direction. Ben had  
only completed fourth grade, but she welcomed the opportunity to learn and grow. The officials helped them  
open bank accounts and provided instruction in financial management and entrepreneurship, creating the  
groundwork for the group’s success. The group began with a monthly savings of ₹100 per member, which has  
since climbed to ₹500. Ben takes part in seasonal activities, like as selling handmade rakhis at festivals like  
Raksha Bandhan and Bhaidooj. In the off-season, she offers masalas like haldi, dhana jiru, and small packets of  
dry fruits. Despite early losses in her work, Ben persisted, learning from her mistakes and building confidence  
in navigating the turbulent market. Her husband also contributes by selling things in villages, demonstrating the  
family’s collaborative efforts to achieve financial stability. Despite what she has achieved, Ben continues to  
confront hurdles. Catering to high-profile consumers, who frequently seek personalized products such as photo  
rakhis, is problematic due to her poor technological skills. She also stated that she needed a permanent selling  
space to expand her business. Her determination and gratitude for the government’s assistance, including low-  
interest loans and subsidies, keep her motivated. Ben's journey with Ekta Sakhi Mandal has converted her from  
a homemaker with no income to a self-sufficient and confident entrepreneur. She has mastered financial systems,  
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honed her mathematical abilities, and earned the respect of her community as a leader. Her tale encourages other  
women in similar situations to take control of their lives and seize possibilities for advancement.  
Journey of Papadvala Ben  
A 55-year-old lady known as Papadvala Ben symbolizes women’s empowerment and financial independence.  
She was educated up to the seventh grade and has been running a thriving papad-making business for over two  
decades. Aside from her entrepreneurial achievements, she is a corporator in her community, using her influence  
to inspire and empower other women. Her story shows the transforming power of women-led efforts to promote  
economic growth and communal development. Inspired by her idea of empowering women, Papadvala Ben  
founded a self-help group with 40 members. Her goal was to build a platform where women could collaborate,  
exchange resources, and attain financial independence. Recognizing papad-making’s potential as a sustainable  
industry, she trained the group members to manufacture high-quality papads. Each member contributes ₹100 to  
the group’s monthly savings, promoting financial discipline and support. Papadvala Ben’s effort not only  
supplied cash to SHG members, but it also had a community-wide impact. By using her established ties with  
local sellers, she maintained a stable market for the group’s papads. This removed the burden of seeking  
consumers, allowing the women to concentrate on production and quality. The cash created by this activity has  
allowed members to support their families, invest in their children's education, and raise their living conditions.  
As the SHG’s leader, Papadvala Ben oversees all bank transactions to ensure openness and accountability. Her  
leadership extends beyond finance; she is a mentor and motivator, encouraging women to seize new possibilities  
for advancement. She fully supports the government’s efforts to promote women’s growth and is actively trying  
to increase the group’s operations. Her idea involves implementing training programs in tailoring and cosmetic  
services to diversify income-generating alternatives for women in the community. The road has been enjoyable,  
but it has not been without hardships. Convincing women to join the SHG and commit to regular savings took  
perseverance and trust-building.  
A Mother’s Journey to Her Children’s Success  
A woman from a modest upbringing who lives in a remote location with limited financial means and prospects.  
Despite the obstacles, she hoped to provide a brighter future for her family, particularly her son, who showed  
remarkable academic promise and planned to be a doctor. However, the high price of medical education seemed  
prohibitive. In her search for financial security, the woman joined a local SHG established under a government  
program aimed at empowering women and promoting communal development. She was able to acquire access  
to low-interest loans, financial literacy training, and a supportive network of women who faced comparable  
struggles and objectives. Recognizing the SHG’s potential as a lifeline, the woman sought a loan to support her  
son’s medical studies. She used the loan to pay her tuition, buy textbooks, and cover other necessary expenses.  
This financial assistance not only secured her son's enrolment in medical school but also relieved the family’s  
immediate financial hardship. After years of dedication and perseverance, her son graduated from medical school  
and became a doctor. This success constituted a watershed moment for the family, improving their social and  
economic standing. The mother’s choice to join the SHG and use its resources not only achieved her son’s desire  
but also gave the family pride and distinction in their community. The woman credits her family’s success to the  
government’s SHG project, which enabled her to overcome financial constraints and accomplish what previously  
appeared impossible. She expresses her heartfelt appreciation for the program, emphasizing its role in changing  
her life and inspiring others in her community to dream big and take courageous steps toward their goals. This  
case study demonstrates SHGs transforming impact on individual lives and communities. SHGs help women  
break free from poverty, invest in their families futures, and contribute to the wider sustainable development  
goal by offering financial resources, skills, and a support network. This mother’s path from financial instability  
to seeing her child become a doctor exemplifies the power of collective action and the far-reaching advantages  
of well-designed government programs.  
SHG Member to Bank Sakhi  
The main character of this narrative is a woman from a rural town with limited access to formal banking services  
and poor female financial knowledge. She joined a SHG founded under a government program to empower  
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women via collective action and financial independence. Initially, she hoped to improve her family’s financial  
situation by engaging in the group’s savings and lending activities. As a SHG member, the woman actively  
engaged in group meetings, savings efforts, and skill development courses. She mastered financial management,  
bookkeeping, and the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Her participation in the program not only helped her  
comprehend financial processes, but it also increased her confidence and communication skills. Through her  
SHG activities, the woman gained a thorough awareness of financial transactions and the role of banking services  
in rural development. Her job in handling the group's accounts and simplifying internal loan processes provided  
her with practical expertise in financial operations. Her SHG group’s support and encouragement inspired her  
to go beyond the organization for new chances. Recognizing her abilities and perseverance, she earns a job in a  
bank to become a Bank Sakhi. This function entailed working as a liaison between the bank and rural villages,  
assisting people in obtaining financial services such as account opening, savings, loans, and government  
schemes. She received training to better comprehend digital banking systems, customer service, and financial  
literacy programs. As a Bank Sakhi, she established herself as a trustworthy banking consultant in her  
community, empowering others by providing easy access to banking services. Her journey from SHG member  
to Bank Sakhi demonstrates the importance of providing women with opportunities, training, and a supportive  
network to help them reach their full potential and make meaningful changes in their communities.  
Saving to Secure  
A group of women in a small rural village formed a SHG as part of a government-supported effort. The majority  
of these women came from low-income homes, making even tiny savings appear impossible. They were used to  
living hand-to-mouth, with little or no savings for emergencies. When the concept of communal savings was  
introduced, many members were hesitant. Setting away even a few rupees each week seemed difficult, given  
that they were already trying to make ends meet. However, with ongoing encouragement from SHG facilitators  
and mutual support among members, they decided to give it a try. As time passed, the ladies began to make little  
contributions to the SHG’s community savings pool. Initially, the quantities were small, but the discipline of  
regular saving quickly became a habit. The SHG’s savings account increased gradually, instilling a sense of  
collective accomplishment and pride in the members. The breakthrough moment occurred when the savings  
account began to serve as a lifeline during emergencies. One member utilized the pooled cash to pay for her  
child's medical treatment, and another was able to cover her children’s school costs. The savings pool became a  
safety net, allowing for instant access to funds without the hefty interest rates charged by local moneylenders.  
Aside from savings, the SHG established a system of low-interest loans. Members might borrow from the  
community fund for a variety of reasons, including launching small activity, purchasing agricultural inputs, and  
dealing with emergencies. These loans enabled women to manage their financial issues on their own. For  
example, one member borrowed a small cash to launch a tailoring business. She used the profits to not only  
repay the loan but also contribute more to the savings pool. Her success encouraged other members to pursue  
income-generating enterprises, resulting in a ripple effect of economic empowerment inside the group.  
The community experienced a tremendous transformation as it moved away from reliance on predatory  
moneylenders and toward self-sufficiency through savings and loans. The SHG became a role model for financial  
inclusion, demonstrating how collective action may give stability and security. The women’s newfound financial  
freedom also increased their decision-making power within their families and communities. This case study  
demonstrates the significant impact of introducing the notion of savings to a SHG. What started as a simple step  
toward financial discipline has grown into a strong system of support and empowerment.  
Training to Triumph  
A young woman from a small town had always wanted to contribute to her family’s income but lacked the  
resources and guidance to do so. Her life began to improve when she joined a self-help group in her  
neighborhood. She was introduced to a variety of skill-building possibilities through the SHG, including a beauty  
and wellness-focused training program. She eagerly participated in the program, acquiring key skills such as  
hairstyling, skincare, and makeup application. The SHG also offered her mentorship and advice on running a  
small business. With these talents and a newfound sense of confidence, women decided to take a risk. She used  
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the tiny money she received from the SHG to open a modest beauty business in her hamlet. Initially, she struggled  
to acquire consumers, but her perseverance and exceptional services quickly earned her a loyal clientele. As her  
business expanded, so did her financial independence. She began contributing significantly to her home  
expenses, ensuring that her children had a better education and her family’s living situation improved. Her  
accomplishment not only improved her financial circumstances but also increased her self-esteem and social  
status. Her path demonstrates the potential of SHGs in giving women with the tools, training, and financial  
support they require to attain self-sufficiency and success.  
Cattle to Cash  
Many women in the village area have improved their financial status with the help of the SHG. One of the most  
notable success stories concerns numerous women who, after joining the SHG, took out loans to purchase  
livestock. With the group’s financial aid, they were able to purchase cows and begin supplying milk to local  
dairies. The consistent income from selling milk enabled these women to become financially independent,  
improving their families’ living situations. The additional revenue allowed them to pay basic needs such as  
education, healthcare, and home bills, pulling their families out of financial hardship. As these women witnessed  
the good impact of their new work, they encouraged others in the community to follow the same. The SHG has  
caused a ripple effect, with more women investing in cattle ranching, launching small enterprises, and  
contributing to the local economy. This collective success story demonstrates how SHGs may help women  
achieve economic independence and develop sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families.  
Independent, Confident, and Self-Sufficient  
The women in the SHG underwent a remarkable financial and personal change. Many were initially apprehensive  
about visiting banks or speaking with bank employees. They were bewildered by the economic system and  
ignorant of how to manage their money. However, after obtaining instruction in banking activities, these women  
were confident to manage their accounts, fill out papers, and even ask for loans. This improved financial  
understanding enabled them to gain control of their finances. They began making informed decisions, managing  
their savings, and investing for the future. Their confidence in handling financial concerns extended beyond the  
bank. These women began to see themselves differently, no longer relying on their husbands or families for  
financial support. Instead, they embraced their newfound independence and self-sufficiency.  
As their confidence increased, they began to move out of their homes and participate in community activities.  
Many started selling their wares at local fairs and shows, engaging with people from various walks of life. These  
encounters introduced them to new ideas, extended their perspectives, and helped them gain confidence in their  
talents. These women’s improvements extended beyond financial freedom. They gained self-esteem, worth, and  
a revitalized sense of purpose. As they overcame obstacles and succeeded in their endeavors, they became role  
models for other women in their communities. Their tales motivated many people to join the SHG movement,  
believing that with the correct help, they, too, could attain independence and make meaningful contributions to  
their families and society.  
Integration with the Sustainable Development Goals  
This section discusses how SHGs help to achieve key SDGs by empowering women, increasing financial  
inclusion, and supporting sustainable economic growth. SHGs are strongly aligned with SDG objectives such as  
SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 2 (zero hunger) SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality education), SDG  
5 (gender equality), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 10 (reduced inequality) and, SDG 12  
(responsible consumption & production) since they promote financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and equality of  
genders.  
The baa group’s masala production business has achieved tremendous success, contributing to economic growth  
(SDG 8). Each member gets ₹12,500 at year-end from pooled savings. They received a ₹40 lakh loan with a  
subsidy, enabling them to launch their shop and improve their economic security. Following gender equality  
(SDG 5), the group has trained women in financial planning, banking, and masala production, promoting a  
culture of collaborative decision-making and conflict-free operations. Additionally, the group worked with  
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Gujarat Gramin Bank and Navsari Nagarpalika to build strong relationships for financial and skill development  
support, contributing to relationships for the goals (SDG 17). These measures have empowered women, allowing  
them to attain sustained progress.  
The group from zupadpatti accomplished SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), starting with ₹100 saved  
per member and growing to ₹500. The organization promotes seasonal activities like rakhi and masala selling,  
and despite initial losses, they have gained financial stability after a certain period. Ben has also contributed  
significantly to reducing inequalities (SDG 10) by supporting women from underprivileged areas to achieve  
financial stability and providing justice by prioritizing actual needs within the community. The group has  
contributed to sustainable communities (SDG 11) with the help of Nagarpalika by providing stalls and spaces  
for product sales, encouraging local businesses, and instilling a feeling of self-reliance in the community.  
Papadvala Ben, a 55-year-old entrepreneur, utilized her papad-making abilities to form a self-help group that has  
empowered 40 women in her town. Her efforts have helped to achieve zero hunger (SDG 2) by providing a  
sustained income through papad-making, enabling food security for households. In addition, she has promoted  
quality education (SDG 4) by teaching women papad-making and financial literacy, with plans to expand to  
include tailoring and cosmetic services. Her initiatives have also contributed to decent work and economic  
growth (SDG 8) by allowing members to earn consistent earnings, raise their living standards, and support their  
families.  
A rural lady joined a SHG to pay for her son’s medical school, which ultimately changed her family's future.  
She got a low-interest loan through the SHG to fund her son’s studies, allowing him to pursue his dream of  
becoming a doctor and contributing to quality education (SDG 4). The SHG’s assistance also reduced her  
family’s financial obligations, helping to raise them out of poverty and contributing to no poverty (SDG 1). She  
also demonstrated the critical role that women play in influencing the futures of their families and communities,  
thereby fostering gender equality (SDG 5).  
A rural woman advanced from SHG member to bank sakhi, a financial advisor, and a community leader. in her  
new post, she improved villagers banking access, allowing them to benefit from government schemes and  
contribute to decent work and economic growth (SDG 8). Her financial security and success encouraged others  
to follow similar careers. she also challenged gender norms, garnering respect in her community and increasing  
women’s participation in financial decision-making, fostering gender equality (SDG 5). She also bridged the  
gap between rural communities and conventional financial systems, promoting partnerships for goals (SDG 17).  
In a community, women used SHG loans to develop dairy enterprises, earning financial independence and  
changing their families destinies. They increased family incomes through consistent milk sales, allowing access  
to education, healthcare, and better living circumstances, contributing to no poverty (SDG 1). The women  
developed a sustainable livelihood model that encouraged others in the community and promoted decent work  
and economic growth (SDG 8). Their collaborative efforts boosted the local economy and promoted sustainable  
communities (SDG 11).  
The transformation of these women is consistent with multiple SDGs, including gender equality (SDG 5), as  
they earned financial independence, broke traditional gender roles, and became self-sufficient. their ability to  
manage funds and engage in entrepreneurial activities helped to achieve decent work and economic growth  
(SDG 8), resulting in sustainable livelihoods. they also contributed to the reduction of inequalities (SDG 10) by  
serving as role models for other women interested in joining the self-help groups. their participation in local  
markets and community activities contributed to sustainable communities (SDG 11), which aimed to enhance  
local economies and promote inclusion. through these changes, women’s empowerment revealed the  
transforming power of financial literacy and independence.  
CONCLUSION  
The incorporation of self-help groups into sustainable development goals emphasizes the critical role of  
grassroots efforts in tackling global issues. SHGs have proven to be an effective tool for reaching various SDGs,  
particularly those relating to poverty reduction, gender equality, and economic growth. The experiences of  
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surveyed SHG demonstrate how these groups may improve the lives of women and communities while also  
contributing to a greater vision of sustainable development. To summarize, SHGs are effective platforms that  
not only economically empower women but also promote unity and social advancement. SHGs immediately  
contribute to SDG 1 (No Poverty) by facilitating access to financial resources and supporting businesses,  
assisting women in lifting their families out of poverty. They also contribute to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by  
empowering women to challenge gender conventions, take in leadership roles, and achieve financial  
independence. Furthermore, SHGs contribute to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by establishing  
sustainable livelihoods and supporting local economies. SHGs support SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and  
Production) by encouraging eco-friendly products and sustainable business practices.  
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https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/nabard-and-nrlm-sign-a-landmark-mou-for-the-benefit-  
of-women-shgs-302073820.html  
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