Paper
An Assessment of Self Help Groups with a Keystone of Microfinance in a Strongest State North East of India
Extending microfinance services through SHGs
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27 pages
This study assesses the growth of SHG-microfinance linkage programs in North East India, particularly in the state of Assam.
The study focuses on two programs, namely, SHG-bank Linkage Program (SBLP) and Swarnajoyanti Gram Swarajgar Yojona (SGSY). It makes inter-state comparisons of progress of the programs in the North Eastern states, and inter-district comparisons in Assam. The study is based on data from secondary sources.
The study reveals that microfinance through SHGs is an important tool for socio-economic empowerment of the poor, particularly women. Findings include:
- Number of bank branches and number of registered NGOs have positive impact on growth of SHGs;
- Government should promote NGOs interested in microfinance;
- Spread of programs within North East region is skewed with the highest concentration in Assam, and within Assam, in Lower Assam and Central Assam districts;
- Currently, the region has only microcredit services, and service providers could introduce other elements of microfinance such as insurance, marketing and technical assistance;
- Quality management of SHGs, greater involvement and orientation of members and incorporation of social security programs in SHG movement are required for sustainability of the programs.
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