Overview of Women Federation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
A Women Federation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) is a collective organization formed by several SHGs at the village, cluster, block, or district level to strengthen the social, economic, and leadership capacities of women. The federation serves as a platform for coordination, mutual support, capacity building, financial inclusion, and collective action among SHG members. CRDS has formed 583 Self Help Groups for women with the membership of 7587 in 120 villages. CRDS facilitate access to small savings & Credit unions in this SHGs.
The federation enables women to access financial services, government welfare schemes, livelihood opportunities, skill development programs, and social protection measures. It also promotes women's participation in decision-making processes, community development initiatives, and local governance. By bringing together multiple SHGs, the federation creates a stronger institutional structure that enhances sustainability, accountability, and empowerment of women at the grassroots level.
Objectives of Women Federation of SHGs
Promote Women's Empowerment
Enhance the social, economic, and political status of women.
Develop self-confidence, leadership, and decision-making abilities among women members.
Strengthen SHG Functioning
Provide guidance, monitoring, and support to member SHGs.
Improve group management, financial discipline, and organizational sustainability.
Enhance Financial Inclusion
Facilitate access to savings, credit, insurance, and banking services.
Promote financial literacy and responsible financial management among members.
Promote Sustainable Livelihoods
Support income-generating activities and micro-enterprises.
Facilitate skill development, entrepreneurship, and market linkages.
Facilitate Access to Government Schemes
Create awareness about welfare programs and entitlements.
Assist members in availing benefits from government and development agencies.
Build Leadership and Governance
Develop women leaders capable of representing community interests.
Encourage participation in local governance institutions and community decision-making.
Address Social Issues
Promote gender equality and women's rights.
Address issues such as domestic violence, child marriage, gender discrimination, and social exclusion.
Strengthen Community Development
Encourage participation in health, education, sanitation, nutrition, environmental conservation, and community welfare initiatives.
Foster collective action for local development and social change.
Promote Networking and Advocacy
Establish linkages with financial institutions, government departments, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
Advocate for policies and programs that benefit women and marginalized communities.
Ensure Sustainability of SHG Movement
Create a strong institutional mechanism for long-term growth and self-reliance of SHGs.
Mobilize resources and build partnerships for sustained community development.
