Performance Analysis of Fisherwomen Self Help Groups in Tamil Nadu

This study analyzes performance of fisherwomen self-help groups (SHGs) in Tamil Nadu, India. It examines data collected from 725 fisherwomen SHG members, from 41 SHGs in five coastal villages during May-October 2004.

The study found that fisherwomen SHGs were performing well in availing and repaying microcredit. Findings include:

• SHGs on an average comprised of 17 members;
• About 86 percent of the fisherwomen SHG members participated in banking activities for microcredit utilization and 75% were equal partners in family decision making;
• Banks charged an interest rate of 9-12% for microcredit extended to fisherwomen SHGs;
• Almost all SHGs reported 100% repayment;
• Members used internal loans and bank credit for various purposes such as improvement of occupation, repayment of old debts, and house construction and alteration;
• About 63% of fisherwomen SHGs members participated in Panchayat Raj Institution activities, impacting their social empowerment.

The study concludes that microfinance had contributed to the overall socio-economic empowerment of the fisherwomen, apart from improving their livelihood conditions and providing banks an opportunity to serve the unreached coastal poor, profitably.