Kalajhinin Mahila SHG

This paper argues that to be empowered to promote and protect the livelihoods of the rural poor, self help groups (SHGs) need to be linked to other institutions, organizations and individuals. It proves its point by citing the case study of the Kalajhini Mahila SHG in Orissa, India. The features of the group were:

• It was motivated by Gramin Vikas Trust (GVT);
• There were 20 women in the group, all of whom were of the same caste and were married;
• Each member of the group saved Rs.10 per month;
• Defaulters were fined Rs.1.

The paper lists the linkages of the group with other organizations, which was made possible by the intervention of the GVT:

• It linked up with the Baitarani Gramya Bank and got a loan for sabai grass cultivation, processing and trading;
• It developed a good relationship with the Block Development Officer (BDO);
• It obtained a loan from DRDA for the sabai grass business;
• GVT provided:
  • Training in modern methods of paddy, vegetable and mushroom cultivation, fishery, poultry and veterinary services;
  • Technical expertise and materials.

The paper concludes by listing the benefits that the villagers enjoy because of the effective working of the SHG:

• They now understand several languages;
• Increase in employment and income has led to an increase in the standard of living;
• Migration to towns in search of wage labor has stopped;
• There is an increased concern about health and sanitation in the village.