Self-Help Groups as Instruments of Women Empowerment and Migration Control in Uttarakhand

Abstract

Rural out-migration has become a major challenge in the hill regions of Uttarakhand due to unemployment, low agricultural income, and limited livelihood opportunities. Migration has adversely affected rural economies and increased the socio-economic responsibilities of women in villages. In this context, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as an important instrument for women empowerment and rural livelihood development. The present study examines the role of SHGs in promoting women empowerment and reducing rural out-migration in Uttarakhand. The study is based on primary and secondary data collected from women associated with SHGs in selected districts of Uttarakhand. The findings indicate that SHGs have improved women’s financial participation, savings habits, income generation capacity, and decision-making ability. The study further reveals that SHG-based livelihood activities create local employment opportunities which may help in reducing migration pressure in rural areas. The paper concludes that strengthening SHGs can contribute significantly towards sustainable rural development and women empowerment in Uttarakhand.