Constraints Faced by the Members in Functioning of Self Help Groups in Punjab District

In Punjab the concept of SHGs has gained a huge popularity. Many institutions such as government organizations, non-government organizations, farmers clubs, health workers and banks are using this approach to empower women socially, economically and politically. SHG have brought tremendous change in the life of women at grass root level. But it requires a lot more efforts on part of the government, NGOs as well as banking sector to promote SHGs in the state. In spite of the speeding number of SHGs, the full potential of SHGs remains unexploited due to some challenges faced by the members of SHGs. Therefore the present study was planned to know the challenges faced by the members of SHGs in Punjab in proper functioning of the groups. The findings of this study revealed that lack of training opportunities were found to be the most serious problem perceived by the members of self-help groups. It was followed by lack guidance and support from promoting agencies and limited opportunities for income generating activities. There is need to overcome these hurdles by providing appropriate training and guidance for smooth functioning of self-help groups.