SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF WOMEN SELF- HELP GROUPS IN NAGAPATTINAM DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU
A THESIS SUBMITTED TO BHARATHIDASAN UNIVERSITY FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN COMMERCE
Submitted By K. MUTHU
Under the Supervision and Guidance of Dr. K. RAMAKRISHNAN , M.A., M.Com., B. Ed., M.Phil., Ph.D., Principal, Vivekananda College of Arts& Science for Women Sirkali. 609 110
BHARATHIDASAN UNIVERSITY TIRUCHIPAPPALLI -620 024 TAMIL NADU, INDIA
APRIL – 2013
Dr. K. RAMAKRISHNAN , M.A., M.Com., B. Ed., M.Phil., Ph.D., Principal, Vivekananda College of Arts& Science for Women Sirkali. 609 110
Date:......
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the thesis entitled “SOCIO-ECONOMIC
CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF WOMEN SELF - HELP
GROUPS IN NAGAPATTINAM DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU” is a bonafide record of research work done by K. MUTHU, in Department of
Commerce, A.V.C. College (Autonomous), Mannampandal– 609 305,
Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam District, under my guidance and supervision, submitted to the Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli for the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Commerce and that the thesis has not previously formed the basis for the award to the candidate of any Degree, Diploma, Associateship, Fellowship or any other similar titles.
I further certify that the thesis represents independent work on the part of the candidate.
(Dr K. RAMAKRISHNAN)
Research Guide and supervisor
DECLARATION
I do hereby declare that thesis has been originally carried out by me at the P.G. and Research Department of Commerce, A.V.C. College
(Autonomous), Mannampandal, Mayiladuthurai under the guidance and supervision of Dr. K. RAMAKRISHNAN, M.A., M.Com., B. Ed., M.Phil., Ph.D.,
Principal, Vivekananda College of Arts& Science for Women, Sirkali and this work has not been submitted elsewhere for any other degree.
Place: Mannampandal Signature of the Candidate Date:
(K. MUTHU)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I whole heartily dedicate my gratitude to “The ALMIGHTY” for his blessings showered upon me for the successful completion of the research study.
I am fortunate to have Dr.K. RAMAKRISHNAN, M.A., M.Com., B.Ed., M.Phil.,
Ph.D. Principal, Vivekananda Arts and Science College for Women, Sirkali, as my
Guide and Supervisor. It is my guide, who made me feel that I am adequately equipped for the enterprise. He helped me at every stage from the inception to the completion of this research work. In him, I have and tapped a reservoir of knowledge, erudition and kindness. Inadequacy of words is the only restraint for thanking him for what all he has done for me to complete this research work successfully.
I record my sincere thanks to the esteemed Chairman, Secretary and Members of the Management of A.V.C. College (Autonomous) for their benevolence in permitting and encouraging me to take up this research work.
I am grateful to the Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli for admitting me to do Ph.D. research work as a part-time candidate.
I am deeply indebted to Dr.K. Thiyagesan, Principal, AVC College
(Autonomous) for providing me the necessary guidance and encouragement.
I also take this opportunity to express my thanks to
Dr.M.Varadharajan, Dean-Evening Section AVC College (Autonomous) for his constant help and encouragement to pursue my academic interest.
I am highly delighted to record my deep sense of gratitude to
Prof. Dr.Venmeega Vengatachalam M.Com, M.Phil., Ph.D. Head, PG and
Research Department of Commerce, AVC College (Autonomous) an Mrs. Santha
Vengatachalam for their kind help and suggestions for the completion of this research work.
I am indebted to our Prof. Dr. M. Tamilarasan former HOD of commerce,
AVC college (Autonomous), former principal Sri Arumugham Arts & Science College
Tholudur and Prof. Dr. M.K. Kaliamurthy who reviewed the manuscript and made necessary improvements in research and literary presentations.
I am also grateful to Prof. T. Srinivasan, Former HOD, Prof. PR.
Chidambaram, Former HOD, Prof. Dr. S. Arunachalam, Prof. Dr. S.
Muthukumar, Former HOD, Prof. R. Gnanasekaran, Former Principal, and HOD
AVC College (Autonomous) Prof. Dr. M. Mathivanan, Prof. Dr. R. Rajan Babu,
Prof. Dr. G. Ravi Selvam, Prof. Dr. S. Mayilvaganan, Prof. Dr. K. Kalidoss, Prof.
B. Varadharajan, Prof. R. Thirumavalavan, Prof. S.
Soundaranayahi, Prof. M. Shanthini, Prof. R. Vanitha, Prof. K.
Sakthivel, Prof. D. Mohan, Prof. E. Jenmarakkini, Prof. G.
Karthikeyan, Prof. M. Panneerselvam, Prof. C. Balaji,
Prof. K. Sankaranarayanan, Prof. A. Muthukumarn, Prof. R.K. Brintha, for their immense help and support.
I express my sincere thanks to Prof. Dr.S. Ramasamy Prof. Dr.R. Karthikeyan and Prof. Dr.V. Thandapani for their encouragement and co-operation throughout this research work.
My special thanks are also due to the Teaching and Non-teaching Staff
Members of the Vivekananda Arts and Science College for Women, Sirkali for their encouragement.
My heartiest thanks are also due to my Brother Prof. K.R. Ramprakash, AVC college of Engineering, Mannampandal for his help in applying the statistical tools in the study.
My thanks are also due to Prof. P. Arivazhagan DRBCCC Hindu college
Pattabiram, Chennai-72, Prof. J. Swaminathan Faculty Member of Management studies, AVC college of Engineering, Mannampandal for their encouragement and support.
I extend my profound thanks to Mr.K. Senthil Nayagam, Librarian AVC
College (Autonomous) and the Librarians of the Bharathidasan University
Tiruchirappalli, Annamalai University, Mr. Murali TNWDC Nagapattinam, for giving me the opportunity to use the libraries for the research study.
The printing has been done superbly by Miss. R.K. Brintha. I wish to express my sincere gratitude for the enormous amount of help she had given me. I am grateful to Muthu Xerox Mayiladuthurai for their excellent printing work.
My thanks are also due to the Secretaries, the Special officers, Accounts officers and other Staff members of TNWDC Nagapattinam for their timely help in providing necessary data.
I am extremely grateful to the NGOs, Sample SHGs and their members in Nagapattinam District for supplying the information needed and sparing their valuable time.
Finally, I consider it as my solemn duty to thank my parents Mr. P.
Kaliyaperumal and Mrs. Muthulakshmi Kaliyaperumal, my father-in-law Mr.
Natarajan, my mother-in law Mrs. Maliga Natarajan, our mother Mrs. Uma
Ramakrishnan for their love and affection, my wife Mrs. Bhuvaneswari Muthu who has assisted me in many of the tasks and helped me with unfailing encouragement and patience. My greatest debt of all is to my daughter Babe K.M. Lakshitha Sri for my absence which she bears during this research period.
I also express my deep sense of gratitude to relatives Mr. N. Ravichandran,
Mr. N. Gogulchandran, Mr. N. Balachandran, Mr. M. Elanchezhian and other family members and friends who have helped me in myriad ways to make my academic venture a success.
K. MUTHU
CONTENTS
CHAPTER TITLE PAGE NO. NO.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT i
LIST OF TABLES vi
LIST OF CHARTS ix
ABBREVIATIONS x
I INTRODUCTION 1
II REVIEW OF LITERATURE 20
III GROWTH OF WOMEN SHGs IN NAGAPATTINAM 39
IV PERFORMANCE OF SAMPLE WOMEN SHGs 83
V ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF
WOMEN SHGs 123
VI SOCIAL CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF
WOMEN SHGs 174
VII SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS 230
BIBLIOGRAPHY
APPENDICES
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE TITLE PAGE NUMBER NUMBER 3.1a Total number of self help groups formed - block wise -- 41
3.1b Total number of self help groups formed - block wise -- 42
3.2a Total number of SHGs’ members - block wise -- 46 3.2b Total number of SHGs’ members - block wise -- 47 3.3a SHGs’ saving - block wise -- 51 3.3b SHGs’ saving - block wise -- 52 3.4 SHGs training programme conducted by TNWDC Nagapattinam -- 55 3.5 Entrepreneurial development programme training conducted By TNWDC Nagapattinam -- 58 3.6 Vocational training conducted by TNWDC Nagapattinam -- 62 3.7 External credit linkages under SGSY Revolving Fund assistance -- 63 3.8 External credit linkages under SGSY Economic Activities financial assistance -- 70 3.9 External credit linkages under TAHDCO Revolving Fund assistance -- 74 3.10 External credit linkage under TAHDCO Economic Activities assistance -- 77 3.11 External credit linkage under NABARD direct financial Assistance -- 80
TABLE TITLE PAGE NUMBER NUMBER
4.1.1 Age of the sample SHGs -- 84 4.1.2 Size of sample SHGs -- 85 4.1.3 Meeting of sample SHGs -- 87 4.1.4 Attendances in the SHGs meeting -- 88 4.1.5 Habit of savings -- 90 4.1.6 Amount of saving (per meeting) -- 91 4.1.7 Total amount of saving -- 92 4.1.8 Training to SHGs member -- 94 4.1.9 Performance of account maintenance -- 96 4.1.10 Problems faced by the SHGs -- 98 4.1.10a Friedman test problems faced by the sample SHGs -- 99 4.2.1 Disbursement of Internal loan -- 100 4.2.1a Association between savings and loans -- 101 4.2.2 Period of loan -- 102
4.2.2a Association between amount of loan and period of loan -- 4.2.3 Rate of interest -- 103 4.2.3a Association between amount of loan and rate of interest -- 105 4.2.4 Number of instalment for repayment of loan -- 106
4.2.4a Association between amount of loan and instalment -- 107
4.2.5 Status of repayment -- 108 4.2.5a Association between amount of loan and status of repayment -- 109 4.3.1 Loan under the various schemes -- 111 4.3.2 Bank loan availed – Block wise -- 114 4.3.3 Disbursement of bank loan -- 116 4.3.4 Rate of interest -- 118 4.3.5 Re-payment in instalment -- 120 4.3.6 Status of re-payment -- 121
TABLE TITLE PAGE NUMBER NUMBER
5.1a Demography profiles of the sample respondents -- 124 5.1b Demography profiles of the sample respondents -- 125 5.2.1 Influence for joining in SHGs - block wise -- 128 5.2.2 Reasons for joining in SHGs - block wise -- 130 5.2.3 Training programme attended - block wise -- 131 5.2.4 Opinion on training programme -- 133 5.2.4a Demographic variables and opinion on training programme -- 135 5.2.5 Impact on training programme -- 136 5.2.5a Demographic variables and impact on training programme -- 137 5.2.6 Nature of the business of sample respondents -- 139 5.2.6a Demographic variables and nature of business doing -- 141 5.2.7 Number of manpower used by sample respondents -- 142 5.2.7a Demographic variables and number of manpower used -- 144 5.2.8 Sources of man power used by sample respondents -- 145 5.2.8a Demographic variables and sources of man power used -- 146 5.2.9 Nature of capital employed by sample respondents -- 148 5.2.9a Demographic variables and nature of capital employed -- 149 5.2.10 Amount loan from internal fund -- 150 5.2.10a Demographic variables and loan from internal fund -- 151
5.2.11 Amount of loan availed from bank -- 153
TABLE TITLE PAGE NUMBER NUMBER
5.2.11a Demographic variables and amount of bank loan availed -- 154
5.2.12 Adequacy of amount of loan from SHGs and bank -- 155 5.2.12a Demographic variables and adequacy of loan -- 156
5.2.13 Profitability of the business of sample respondents -- 158
5.2.13a Demographic variables and the profitability of business -- 159
5.2.14 Solvency position of business of sample respondents -- 160 5.2.14a Demographic variables and solvency position -- 161 5.3.1 Mean score regarding durable articles – t test -- 163 5.3.2 Mean scores regarding agricultural land, implements and live stock assets – t test -- 166 5.3.3 Mean scores regarding business assets – t test -- 168 5.3.4 Mean scores regarding investment and jewels assets – t test -- 170 5.3.5 Mean scores regarding family monthly income, expenses and savings – t test --172 6.1.1 Status in the family --175 6.1.2 Block and women status --178 6.1.3 Area and women status --179 6.1.4 Position and women status --180 6.1.5 Membership and women status --181 6.1.6 Age and women status --182
TABLE TITLE PAGE NUMBER NUMBER
6.1.7 Marital status and women status --183 6.2.1 Status in the working place --185 6.2.2 Block and women status at the working place --188 6.2.3 Area and women status at the working place --189 6.2.4 Position and women status at the working place --190 6.2.5 Member ship experience and women status at the working place --191 6.2.6 Age and women status at the working place --192 6.2.7 Marital status and women status at the working place --193 6.3.1 Women status in living place --195 6.3.2 Block and women status in living place --197 6.3.3 Area on women status in living place --198 6.3.4 Position of women status in living place --199 6.3.5 Membership experience and women status in living place --200 6.3.6 Age and women status in living place --201 6.3.7 Marital status and women status in living place --202 6.4.1 Women status in politics --204 6.4.2 Block and woman status in politics --206 6.4.3 Area and woman status in politics --207 6.4.4 Position in SHG and woman status in politics --207 6.4.5 Membership experience and woman status in politics --208 6.4.6 Age and woman status in politics --209 6.4.7 Marital status and woman status in politics --210
TABLE TITLE PAGE NUMBER NUMBER
6.5.1 Personal development --212 6.5.2 Block and personal development --214 6.5.3 Area and personal development --215 6.5.4 Position and personal development --215 6.5.5 Membership experience in SHG and personal development --216 6.5.6 Age and personal development --217 6.5.7 Marital status and personal development --218 6.6.1 Women voice against injustice --221 6.6.2 Block and women voice against injustice --223 6.6.3 Area and women voice against injustice --224 6.6.4 Position in SHG and women voice against injustice --225 6.6.5 Membership experience in SHG and women voice against injustice --226 6.6.6 Age and women voice against injustice --227 6.6.7 Marital status and women voice against injustice --228
LIST OF CHARTS
CHART TITLE OF THE CHARTS PAGE NUMBER NUMBER
3.1 Total number of SHGs formed -Block wise -- 43
3.2 Total number of SHGs’ members -Block wise -- 48 3.3 SHGs’ saving -Block wise -- 53
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
ARDC - Agriculture Refinance and Development Corporation AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome DWCRA - Development of Women and Children Rural Areas EDP - Entrepreneurial Development Programme EA - Economic Activities GOI - Government of India GKY - Ganaga Kalyan Yojana IRDP - Integrated Rural Development Programme MaThi - Mahalir Thittam; Women’s Development Project MWS - Million wells Scheme MFIs - Micro Finance Intuitions Max - Maximum Min - Minimum NABARD - National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development NGO - Non-Governmental Organisation RBI - Reserve Bank of India RRBs - Regional Rural Banks RF - Revolving Fund Rs - Rupees SBI - State Bank of India SHG - Self Help Group SGSY - Swaranajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana SITRA - Supply of Improved Toolkits for Rural Artisans SC/ ST - Scheduled Caste/ Scheduled Tribes TNWDC - Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Limited TRYSEM - Training of Rural Youth for Self Employment TAHDCO - Tamilnadu Adi-Dravidar Housing development Corporation TV - Television
CHAPTER - I
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER - I
INTRODUCTION
India’s achievements in the development sectors are moderate, even after sixty five years of independence. The major challenges are unemployment and poverty, especially in rural areas on account of reliance of poor on the unorganized sources of credit. The dynamics of rural credit has rapidly changing from time to time. Finance plays a predominant role in different economic activities carried by the rural mass, because of the fact that the majority of rural people is very poor. In an environment where vicious circle of poverty operates, the downtrodden of rural villages are not capable of being to go for capital formation as the income from their operations is inadequate even to meet their basic requirements of life. Then the poor villagers require finance to carry out different income generating economic activities.
The importance of finance is realized in the development of rural population especially women, the various financial institutions such as Government, co-operatives, commercial banks, regional rural banks were entered into the scene for the provision of institutional credit. The Government was a source of rural finance. The finance provided by the government is known as “Taccavi Loan”. In 1883, Land Improvement
Act was enacted by the Government of India. Under the provisions of this Act, the
Government disbursed long term loan to farmers for making permanent improvement over the land. The Agricultural Loan Act was passed in 1884. This Act empowered the
Government to sanction short term credit to farmers for meeting expenses relating to agricultural
operation in times of natural calamities. This Taccavi loan is not a major source of agricultural credit. The rigidity and cumbersome procedure involved in getting the loan made the farmers under difficult position to obtain such loan. Further the repayment culture among the borrowers was worse. Hence the loan of Taccavi was failure of taccavi.
The co-operative movement was introduced in India in 1904, by the enactment of co-operative societies Act, 1904. Co-operative society provides credit for short, medium, and long-term periods. In Tamil Nadu the short-term and medium-term credit are provided by co-operatives under three tier structures, Primary Credit Co- operative Societies at the village level, Central Co-operative Banks at the district level and Apex co-operative Bank at the State level. Long-term loans are given by co- operatives under two-tier structure, Primary Co-operative Agriculture and Rural
Development Banks at taluk level and Central Land Development Bank at State level.
From 1914, GOI and RBI appointed various committees and commissions in order to strengthen the performance of co-operatives. Though the co-operatives made significant progress and contribution for the economic development of the persons of limited means, the credit needs of large population were not met by the co-operatives.
In 1969, 14 major commercial banks and in 1980, six more banks were nationalized. The purpose of nationalization of these commercial banks was to extend financial accommodation to agriculture, either directly or indirectly. Direct short-term and medium-term credits are provided for agricultural activities. Indirect finance is given for the disbursement of agricultural inputs and also financing through Co- operatives and
RRBs. SBI opened special branches known as Agricultural Development Branches mainly catering to the credit requirements especially for agriculture and allied activities.
In India, the credit needs of rural people like small farmers, artisans and other weaker sections were not effectively met by both co-operatives and commercial banks.
It was observed that they were not in a position to meet even fifty percent of total credit needs of rural people. There was a widely shared view that a more determined effort was needed to speed up the flow of institutional credit especially to meet the needs of the weaker section of the rural community1. The working Group under the chairmanship of Shri. M. Narasimhan (1976) recommended the establishment of
Regional Rural Banks. In view of this recommendation, Government has initiated the establishment of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). The backward area where the coverage of commercial banks and co-operatives is poor, these Regional Rural Banks are set-up.
These banks are established with a view to generate employment to the educated rural youth through better banking facilities in rural sector. The main objective of RRBs is to uplift the rural economy by the provision of loan to rural mass like small farmers, artisans, agricultural labourers and small entrepreneurs etc. These banks are expected to solve the problem of rural indebtedness and wipe out the credit gap in the rural villages.
Local money lenders occupied a prime position as a source of rural credit, until the co-
1 Reserve Bank of India and Regional Rural Banks – Report of the Review committee p 4
operative movement was introduced in India. Even though co-operatives have played a vital role in agricultural credit, there were failures in disbursement of rural credit. Rural banking assumed greater importance on account of nationalization of major commercial banks. Nationalised banks are encouraged to provide priority sector lending. Reserve bank of
India established Agriculture Refinance and Development Corporation in 1975; subsequently Regional Rural Banks were also started. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development was set up by the conversion of ARDC. During the past six decades of planning, Government has spend huge amount on agriculture and rural development programmes of credit, as it was assured that farmers and poor households are facing liquidity constraints. Most of these efforts are heavily subsidized charging concessional rate of interest and tolerating loan defaults.
The direct programmes of credit are proved to be ineffective in achieving the desired goals of rural transformation. Further, institutionalized credit did not cover poor women. Women have less access to resources required to generate stable income.
Women are less discriminated when their income is relatively high in household income and women who are capable of being to meet their own needs as well as those of children. The welfare and development programmes are made good when they are focused to address women than men. Hence, all policies relating to development, significantly credit and financial policies had to be revamped to increase the productivity of women’s work and their earning capacity to the fullest extent. It is recommended that Government participation in the credit sector as a strategy of poverty alleviation required to focus its importance on women empowerment and help poor women for their mutual help. It is imperative to use credit as an instrument to bring sea change in social, economical and living condition of poor women. To ensure involvement of women in development process, the poor women need to organize themselves as a separate group and is considered as an important institutional change.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are micro credit institutions, which have emerged at the village level based on self-help, collective perception, decision making and implementation of common programmes. SHGs are now occupying a predominant position in the rural credit delivery system. SHGs are playing a vital role in attaining the objectives of economic planning viz., economic, social development of women and thereby bringing empowerment of women. A self-help group consists of 12 to 20 women from homogeneous class, who joined together for solving their common problems. The groups are encouraged to inculcate the habit of thrift and savings. The regular savings of members are pooled and the augmented fund at their disposal is rotated among the members at an agreed rate of interest. Banks are interestingly involved in the provision of credit to SHGs in certain multiples of savings collected by the group. The linkage of Bank credit with SHGs is an innovative programme with the objective of promoting banking habit among those who are not bankable.
EVOLUTION OF SHGs IN TAMILNADU-SLOW AND STEADY
In Tamil Nadu State, a typical pattern emerging on SHGs growth horizontally.
NGOs and Women were struggled to form the first SHG. Subsequently formation of
SHGs resulted in large numbers has been motivated largely from within. It was the struggle of first SHG even to conduct weekly meetings and collecting money to save for six months. A small amount of saving was remitted with bank as deposit on a weekly or monthly basis. The group lent it to members within a period of six months after withdrawn from bank. This is called internal lending. The suspicion that the organizers run away with the savings was the first very important incident took place to the MaThi proved wrong.
The reason is transparent SHG operation and each and every member aware of the details. The savings of SHG deposited in to a bank account. A pass book was given by the bank in which the amount of saving deposited was entered. These details are made known to each member during the weekly meeting. Periodical visits are often made by NGOs and MaThi officials and they verify the pass book. The Group won the trust and confidence of local people. The performance, progress and growth of first
SHG made a remarkable success, really it is becoming beautiful. The village people had a close watch over the progress of the first SHG. After two years, the impact of this on other women in the village was like a thunderstorm.
The success of the first SHG spread like forest fire. Village women also have the desire to form SHGs. Thus the process of scaling up evolved slowly by establishing a few successful SHGs and the speed with which the women were coming forward ‘on their own’. There was a typical illustration of the evolution of SHGs. First SHG was formed in the village as early as March 1997. But the second SHG was formed only in
April 2000 after a gap of three years. This SHG was formed at the instance of women themselves who wished to form the SHG. Two more groups wished to form SHGs in 2001 within a gap of one year. So only four groups were formed between 1997- 20012.
The animator is the crucial person in a SHG. The animator is generally a young (mostly less than 30 years of age) and an educated lady (mostly above VIII standard). Many are
Xth or XII passed or failed person. There are two representatives, I and II per group. It would be ideal if they are also educated, but it is not required. Generally, they have some education (most of them are less than VIII standard) but better than the members.
They
could also be elder to the animators (30-40 years). Certainly, education takes priority over the age of women for all these positions. There are a maximum of 20 members and a minimum of 12 members in a SHG. Membership in a group is generally closed when the group has been formed. The responsibilities of members are attend the meetings, Pay the savings and membership fees and repay the loans properly. Meetings are conducted four times a month. It is conducted on a particular day of the week and at a particular time. Usually, it is conducted in the evening by about 7 or 8 p.m. The most striking in a SHG is the volunteership provided by the animator and the representatives. They are the central force that carries forward the group. Maintaining the accounts and registers properly is the prime factor for the success of the SHG. The workload is quite heavy, but is done voluntarily. In the changing economic scenario, self-help groups have experienced greater importance at global level. In particular,
Tamil Nadu economy is poised for increased economic growth, expected to a great extend by SHGs. There is a greater scope for SHGs dealing in trading and
2 Women’s Own by C.K. Gariyali and S.K. Vettivel P.16
manufacturing. In villages, skilled persons are scantily available at all levels and in all fields. Besides, the present generation of SHGs is also passing through transition phase. Rural economy in India has gained negative experience in women employment opportunities. Today the GOI and Tamil Nadu state have been promoting micro credit through SHGs. In the process of regional development, SHGs have assumed prime significance. For regional development, SHG is an emerging perspective. The Socio- economic development of women requires the strengthening of SHGs. The recent development of SHGs brought about a lot of changes in Tamil Nadu in regard to employment, standard of living and social transformation. The gender issues like, the women have a low status, education, economic and political participation. Now a day these issues have improved considerably in Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu State, SHGs have capacity of establishing the required factors in such a way to get maximum output at low cost. The poor villagers suffer from problems like unemployment, under employment, assetlessness, illiteracy, ill-health, poor housing, and poor participation in development programmes, vulnerability to natural calamities such as flood, cyclone, drought and tsunami.
In India, SHG movement was started in early 90s and gained its momentum since 1998. Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharastra and Andhra Pradesh are performing better in the formation of women SHGs. Tamil Nadu has formed the highest women
SHGs numbering 44,13,111 with 69,91,366 members and their pooled saving
Rs.2,56,800.99 lakhs during 2011-12. Nagapattinam district, one of the districts in
Tamil Nadu, with a large number of poor, has developed SHGs as a tool for alleviation of poverty. Group members improve the financial status of their family by developing linkage with banks. It is learnt that SHGs create more economic opportunities through micro credit, integrating contribution to social and economic infrastructure is utmost important.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
SHGs have assumed greater importance, which is considered as the most necessary tool to adopt participatory approach for the social and economic improvement of women. SHG consists of poor women who do not have access to formal financial institution. It develops ‘we’ feeling among the members and helps to learn to co-operate and work in a group environment. SHG increases the borrowing power and provides strength; it can be antidotes to the uncared and downtrodden poor women. Nagapattinam district is one among the front line districts in the promotion of
SHGs, which are
developed as a tool for the eradication of poverty. The district is coastal in nature and also surrounded by villages engaging in agriculture. But the district was consecutively worst hit by natural calamities such as Tsunami, flood and cyclone. Now the district proclaimed as drought prone area. In this situation, the role of SHG movement is all the more important for the promotion of economic interest of the inhabitants of the districts especially women. In Nagapattinam district, studies evaluating the performance of
SHGs are rare. The contributions made by academicians are limited in scope and the attention was focused on either single or a few problems of a given region. Based on the earlier study, it is learnt most of the studies concentrate in analysing performance of
SHGs, Bank linkage programme, Micro credit under various schemes. Even such studies were not undertaken in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu during the last ten years to assess the socio-economic conditions of members of women SHGs. Hence, there is a need to make a study on the performance of SHGs and their impact on the socio-economic conditions of women members. The present study is an attempt in this direction, which evaluates the performance of SHGs in Nagapattinam district and also to analyse the efficacy of SHGs approach to micro credit in improving the economic and social condition of women members.
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
1. To study the growth of women SHGs and bank linkage programme in Nagapattinam District.
2. To analyse the performance of sample women SHGs in the study area.
3. To examine the impact of SHGs on the economic condition of members and
4. To examine, how far women SHGs help in promoting social condition of their members.
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The present study has been undertaken with a view to evaluate the
performance of SHGs and their impact on the socio-economic conditions of
members in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu. The study is based on empirical evidences gathered from the selected respondents to study the progress of SHGs in
Nagapattinam District. Further, attention has also been focused on evaluating the performance of sample SHGs and efforts have been made to examine how far
SHGs help in the upliftment of social status of women. Besides the impact of women SHGs on entrepreneurial development, employment generation, earning capacity and asset creation of women were analysed in the study.
METHODOLOGY
The study is descriptive in nature. Nagapattinam district is purposely selected as the study area. The study is based on both primary and secondary data.
SAMPLING
Nagapattinam district comprises of eleven blocks viz., Nagapattinam,
Thirumarugal, Kilvelur, Keelaiyur, Thalainayar, Vedharanyam, Mayiladuthurai,
Sembanarkoil, Sirkali, Kuttalam, and Kollidam. Each block is designated as stratum. Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling procedure was adopted to select sample self-help groups and member respondents from all the eleven blocks in
Nagapattinam district. The size of sample for SHGs is calculated with a margin of error at 1 percent level and 99 percent confidence level arrived as 665 members.
Further from each stratum (block) the sub sample size is calculated proportionately.
The following method of calculation is used for determining the sample size for
SHGs and members. Z 2 * p(1 p ) Required Sample size = SS , Where SS = 2 SS 1 C 1 N
POPULATION Rural Urban Total Total Total Total Block Members Members Members Groups Groups Groups Kilvelur 779 12464 123 1945 902 14409 Keelaiyur 724 11584 117 1755 841 13339 Kollidam 1742 26130 0 0 1742 26130 Kuttalam 1046 15690 161 2415 1207 18105 Mayiladuthurai 1555 23325 455 6825 2010 30150 Nagapattinam 932 14412 648 9720 1580 24132 Sembanarkoil 1779 26685 506 7590 2285 34275 Sirkali 1806 27090 349 5335 2155 32425 Thirumarugal 851 12665 74 1184 925 13849 Thalainayar 851 12685 196 2940 1047 15625 Vedharanyam 1467 22005 387 5805 1854 27810 Total 13532 204735 3016 45514 16548 250249 Source: TNWDC Ltd. Nagapattinam
SAMPLE Rural Urban Total Total Mem Total Total Block Members Members Groups bers Groups Groups Kilvelur 18 33 3 5 21 38 Keelaiyur 16 31 3 5 19 36 Kollidam 40 69 0 0 40 69 Kuttalam 24 42 4 6 28 48 Mayiladuthurai 35 62 11 18 46 80 Nagapattinam 21 38 15 26 36 64 Sembanarkoil 40 71 12 20 52 91 Sirkali 41 72 8 14 49 86 Thirumarugal 19 34 2 3 21 37 Thalainayar 19 34 5 8 24 42 Vedharanyam 33 58 9 16 42 74 Total 306 544 72 121 378 665 Source: computed
DATA COLLECTION
Survey method has been adopted along with personal interview technique for the collection of primary data. Two interview schedules, well structured and pretested were administered for gathering of information from sample SHGs and member respondents. Further, secondary data were pooled from the office records of TNWDC at Nagapattinam, books and journals.
TOOL FOR ANALYSIS
Different statistical tools were employed for analyzing the gathered data. Tools like
Mean, Standard deviation, Co-efficient variations, Average Annual Growth Rate,
Linear Growth Rate, Compound Growth Rate, Chi-square test, F test, t-test and Rank correlation were employed to strengthen the analysis.
MEAN For a data set, the mean is the sum of the observations divided by the number of observations. It identifies the central location of the data, sometimes referred to in
English as the average. The mean is calculated using the following formula.
STANDARD DEVIATION
The standard deviation is the most common measure of variability, measuring the spread of the data set and the relationship of the mean to the rest of the data. If the data points are close to the mean, indicating that the responses are fairly uniform, then the standard deviation will be small. Conversely, if many data points are far from the mean, indicating that there is a wide variance in the responses, then the standard deviation will be large. If all the data values are equal, then the standard deviation will be zero. The standard deviation is calculated using the following formula.
CO-EFFICIENT OF VARIATION The coefficient of variation represents the ratio of the standard deviation to the mean, and it is a useful statistic for comparing the degree of variation from one data series to another, even if the means are drastically different from each other.
Average Annual Growth Rate (AAGR) calculated to find out the Growth at which the financial variables increase or decrease using by the formula
AAGR = [(Xt – Xt-1)/Xt-1 *100]/n where t = time period
Linear Growth Rate calculated using by the formula Y = a + b t where t = time, a = constant b = the regression coefficient which represents the rate of change that occurs in Y when time varies. The average growth is found out by dividing the coefficient ‘b’ by the mean of series y. That is, Linear Growth Rate = b/ Y*100.
Compound Growth Rate (CGR) calculated by using the equation Y = a bt Where t = time, a = constant, b = growth coefficient. From which the CGR is computed by the following formula. CGR = (b – 1) * 100, which represents the growth rate of the series compounded over a period of time.
Further 11 basic growth models were used to analyze the trend and forecast for future performance.
CHI-SQUARE ANALYSIS The Chi-square analysis is used to test the significance of association between two attributes and to test the homogeneity or the significance of population variance. In other words, this technique is used to test the significance of the influence of one character over the other. All the tests were carried out at 95 percent level of confidence.
NON PARAMETRIC FRIEDMAN TEST The Friedman test is a nonparametric alternative to the repeated measures of analysis of variance. It is the non parametric equivalent of a one-sample repeated measures design or a two-way analysis of variance with one observation per cell.
Friedman tests the null hypothesis that k related variables come from the same population. In order to ascertain the factors that will influence the respondents towards the attitude Friedman non parametric test is used to identify the factor which is more influencing the respondent towards women status in the family, work place, living place, politics, personal development and voice against in justice.
AVERAGE SCORE ANALYSIS After converting the qualitative information into a quantitative one using a five point scale, the average scores were obtained on various issues to determine the level of acceptance. The test for mean score analysis (t & ANOVA) test procedure is used to compare mean scores regarding the women status in the family, work place, living place, politics, personal development and voice against injustice.
TESTING OF HYPOTHESIS
The study endeavors to examine the association between demographic variables and socio-economic condition of members, for which the under mentioned hypotheses were framed. There is significant relationship between the amount of saving and the amount of internal loan extended to the members.
There is significant relationship between the amount of internal loan and period of loan, rate of interest, period of repayment and status of repayment.
There is significant association between the selected demographic variables and the opinion on the training programme attended.
There is significant association between the selected demographic variables and the impact on training programme.
There is significant association between the selected demographic variables and the number and sources of manpower used in business.
There is no significant difference between the mean scores of possession of the various assets value before and after joining SHG.
There is no significant difference between the mean scores of family monthly income, expenses and savings before and after joining SHG.
There is no significant impact of the selected geographic variables and women status in family, work place, living place, politics, personal development and voice against injustice.
There is no significant impact of the selected demographic variables and women status in family, work place, living place, politics, personal development and voice against injustice.
LIMITATIONS
Data were collected from the oral communication of the sample respondents, since no respondent maintains authentic records. The objectivity of the data is limited.
The findings of the study are based on these results have to cautiously viewed.
However, care and diligence have been exercised to present meaningful conclusion.
PERIOD OF THE STUDY The study analyses the socio-economic conditions of the members of women SHGs in Nagapattinam district based on the secondary data for the periods from 2001- 2002 to 2011- 2012. The primary data collection was carried out in all the blocks during
2011-12. The period of the study was normal, free from abnormalities in climatic and monsoon conditions.
CHAPTER SCHEME
The report has been organized into seven chapters. The first chapter deals with introduction, which includes statement of the problem, objectives of the study along with methodology. The second chapter reviews the earlier literatures available on the topic. The third chapter highlights the growth of SHGs in Nagapattinam District. The performance of sample SHGs is analyzed in the Fourth Chapter. The fifth chapter projects the economic conditions of members of women SHGs. The social conditions of members of women SHGs are presented in the Sixth Chapter. The final chapter summarises the findings of the study and suggestions made for further improvement in the performance of SHGs.
CHAPTER - II
REVIEW OF
LITERATURE
CHAPTER - II
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
The review of available literature and studies is the basis of further research.
It is worthy to review the relevant literatures before doing a research study. It exhibits
how much work has been already done in the area under research. A review of
literature is further helpful to identify the research gap and lead the study to fill in such
a gap. A brief outline of various study report is presented in this chapter.
Kumaran (1997) In his study in “an alternative to institutional credit to the poor”, states that self-help groups have empowered the rural women effectively in Andhra Pradesh by providing micro credit. He also says that micro credit given by the banks to the self-help groups raises the socio-economic status of the rural women.3
Dr.V. Rangarajan (1997) In his paper of women’s technological employment and sustainable development in rural area brought out various general economic impacts of
SHGs beneficiaries organized by Tamil Nadu women Development corporation Ltd. In
Tamil Nadu state. The summary of impact are presented below:
1. Due to collective effort taken up be Self Help Group members, collector
sanctioned the fund for road construction in their villages.
3. Kumaran, Self Help Group: an Alternative to institutional credit to the poor: A case study in Andhra Pradesh, Journal of Rural Development, 16 , 1997.
2. After road emerged linking the village where the group live.
3. Transportation (milk van) improved.
4. Marketing (milk) improved.
5. The women started plantation of Jasmine flowers in their own land.
6. Capable of taking the issue of delayed credit from the bank to the higher
officials(Regional manager of the Bank)
7. Successfully kept their husbands away from money lenders after convenes them.
8. Improvement in standard of living.
9. Collector agreed to entrust the job on experimental basic and entrusted the job to
the women group.
10. On seeing this successful experiment, collector encouraged other groups also to
emulate this type of community work.
11. The group decided that one of member’s husband. Who is a mechanic can operate
such machine. Hence collectively they approached the bank which sanctioned
loan for a flour mill as per the unit cost. However, compared to the actual cost of
the mill there was a shortage of fund, which necessitated them to obtain high cost
loan from money lender. Regular repayment of bank dues affected. Again the
group took up the matter with the financial institutions and got additional loan.
High cost was settled first to avoid higher interest rate.
12. Without getting discouraged the group decided to take up the matter with the
project authorities and the Regional Manager of the bank – a solution was found
by selling out the machines and adjusting subsidy for the shortfall. Fresh loan was sanctioned to the activity acceptable to the group/NGO and suitable to the
area.4
Sakuntala Narasimha (1999): In her study on empowering Rural women focused
that the Rural Women’s Development through SHG received priority for the first
time during the sixth plan period. The emphasis, however, continue to be on the
economic front through Programme such as IRDP, DWDRA, TRYSEM and others.
It was conceded that none of these projects has delivered the expected results in the
form of overall betterment of women’s status in SC/ST communities. The reasons are
lack of identification with the spirit of projects among the official entrusted with the
implementation procedural bases and most important failure to involve the
beneficiary population as participants.5
Liestte Brunson (2000): Has conducted a study on promoting family – related self- help group in rural areas of Illinois. The study has been conducted in two phases. In
Phase-I, ninety-three Self-Help groups serving in rural areas of Champaign and
Vermilon countries were invited to participate in a need assessment survey. The surveys assessed the resources and needs of rural groups as well as the barriers faced by rural individual seeking groups. In Phase –II, thirteen interviews were conducted with professionals and facilitators working with self help groups in rural areas. His findings provided
4 Dr. V. Rangarajan – Paper on women’s Technological Empowerment and sustainable Development in Rural Area Presented in International workshop on ‘Women’ Technological Empowerment and sustainable development – M.S. Swaminathan Research Foudation, Chennai Oct. 1997. 5 Sakuntala Narasimha, Empowering Rural Women, Journal of Kurukshetra, November 1999, PP 8-9.
information for the family service self help centre on how to better serve rural Self
Help Groups.6
Rebacca Robby and durude Sirichanya (2000) stated the importance of Indian Rural
Development projects to empower women. They explain various projects. The objective of the various projects is to empower the poorest rural women through Self-
Help Groups, which aims at increasing control resources, developing income- generating scheme, improving management and technical skills and gaining access to credit and social services. They have also mentioned that the World Bank had approved
$ 19.5 million to the Government of India for Rural women Development and
Empowerment project.7
Puhazhendi .V (2000) has conducted a study to evaluate the Self Help Groups in
Tamil Nadu. In this study an attempt is made to review the progress of SHG-Bank linkage programme in Tamil Nadu and assess the socio-economic impact of the programme on the group members. The Study covers 70 SHGs, promoted by four major NGOs. The findings revealed that the SHG-Bank linkage programme can be viewed from the angle of rural poor and banks. The group formation and its linkage with banks is expected to increase the availability of capital to the rural households,
6 Liesette Brunson, Promoting Family – Related Self Help Groups in Rural Areas of Illionis. http:// www. Aces. Uiuc.edu/-had/ural/ IRFP. Promoting family related Hg Report, htm, 2000.
7 Rebacca Robby and durude Sirichanya, India Rural Development Project to Empower Women World Bank Information center, News Release No.97/1292 SAS.www. World bank orgl html/extdr/extme/1292 htm. which in turn would relieve them from the clutches of money lenders and enable them to tale up economic activities.8
Rajarm (2000) has made a research on participatory monitoring for Self-Help groups as a tool for sustainability. He looks at how monitoring systems may be put in place for
SHGs under a women’s empowerment programme like the Mahalir Thittam. He stresses the need to institutionalize the system of self-monitoring by building capacity within SHGs or federations and looks at Self or participative monitoring as a cornerstone for sustainability.9
Gurulingalah (2000) has made a study on Role of NGO in empowerment of Tribal women in Karnataka. An attempt is made here to study the efforts made by a NGO to empower the tribal women in rural areas of Gubbi Taluk of Tumkur district of
Karnataka. The findings indicate that though various measures have been taken by the
Government financial institution and NGOs for the empowerment of women, a number of them are still lagging behind. He further stated that in order to empower them the
NGOs should extend their sincere guidance and moral support for the overall progress of women.10
Saudarjya Borbora and Ratul Mahanta (2001) in their study of micro-credit in the generation of income of the poor and assess the role of SHGs in promoting the habit of savings among the poor and contribution of the programme in social and economic
8 Puhazhendhi.V, “Evaluation study of Self Help Groups in Tamil Nadu”, National Bank for Agricultural and Rural Development, Mumbai, India (2000).pp.43.
9 Rajaram, Tamil Nadu Corporation for Deveopment of Women Ltd. Participation, http:// www.gdrc.org/icm/nandu- 5,html.2000
10 Gurulingalah. M., Role of NGO in empowerment of tribal Women in Karnataka, The monthly Journal Kurushetra, Dec. 2000, pp. 32-33. empowerment of poor in general and of women in particular by the Rashtriya Gramin
Vikas Nidhi as a pilot project. They concluded that this programme helped the poor
people to free themselves from the clutches of non-formal sources of credit and also it helped to set up a number of micro enterprises for income generation.11
Rao V.M. (2001) conducted a case study in Arunachal Pradesh. Based on the concentration of various tribes, 5 districts were selected with eight Anganwadi centres drawn from two Integrated Child Development Service(ICDS) areas from each district which were identified for a detailed study. The sample includes 200 women respondents spread over five districts. It was found that a vast majority of the women in the state is interested in organizing SHGs. Women have opted for schemes like fishponds, vegetable cultivation, horticulture, garment shop, petty trade, weaving and breading mithuns to be taken up through SHGs.12
Lakshmanan .S (2001) has analysed the working of Mallipalayam SHG in Erode district of Tamil Nadu. In his study he pointed out that SHG is really boon in the rural areas, which gives financial autonomy to the rural women and make them economically independent.13
11 Barbora, S. and Ratul Mahanta, “micro Finance through Self-help Groups and its Impact: A case of Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Nidhi- credit and saving programme in Assam”, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September,2001.
12 Rao V.M., ‘Socio-Economic status of Tribal Women in Arunachal Pradesh’ , the Monthly Journal, Kurukshethra, Dec. 2001, pp 24-29. 13 Lakshmanan, S., “Working of Self-help Group with Particular reference to Mallipalayam Self-help Group, Gobichettipalayam block, Erode District, Tamil Nadu” , Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September,2001.
Anjugam .M and Alagumani .T(2001) in their joint study carried out with the objective of assessing the economic, social and institutional impact of micro finance
through SHGs. The study suggests that if the group formation is correct, then definitely there will be positive impact on all aspects.14
R. Das et al.(2001) in his study attempted to analyze the composition and performance of SHGs. The study shows that more number of grants and aids would help to build adequate infrastructure which would eventually streamline the various activities of the
SHGs resulting ultimately in economic prosperity and social stability for them.15
Mishra J.P., R.R. Verma and V.K Singh (2001) examined SHGs in terms of SHGs’ function and its impact on generation of income and employment, to identify the major constraints and problems or rural self-help groups. He suggested that the commercial banks, regional rural banks, primary agricultural co-operative credit societies and other financing institutions as well as the State Government should come forward to help the rural poor through the SHGs and provide liberalized credit facilities at cheaper rate of interest.16
14 Anjugem,M. and T. Alagumani, “Impact of Micro Finance through Self-help groups-A Case Study”, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September, 2001.
15 Das, R., R.N. Barman and P.K. Barush, “Performance of Self-help groups in Sonitpur District of Assam, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September, 2001. 16 Misra, J.P.., R.R. Verma and V.K. Singh, “ Socio-Economic Analysis of Rural Self-help Groups Scheme in Block Amaniganj, Disrtict Faizabad” Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September, 2001.
Vtta lamal and Parminder Singh (2001) in their study attempted to describe the process of development of SHGs in Hoshiarpur district of Punjab, identify their weaknesses and evaluate the impact of the groups on the income of members. They concluded that undue delays in the sanctioning of loans need to be eliminated to achieve
the objective of economic upliftment of the poor. Further they also suggested that an extensive awareness campaign is needed to convince the bankers that the poor are bankable and advancing credit to them is more profitable and secure in terms of recovery.17
Relkha R. Gaonkar (2001) attempted to study the working and the impact of SHGs in selected taluks of Goa. The study reveled that individual loans are mostly used for productive purposes and the rate of recovery is cent percent. The study concludes that the movement of SHGs can significantly contribute towards the reduction of poverty and unemployment in the rural sector of the economy. The study also suggested the
SHGs can lead to social transformation in terms of economic development and social change.18
17 Vatta, Kamal and Parminder Sing, “The performance of Self-Help Groups in Punjab”. Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September, 2001. 18 REKHA R. GAONKAR., “Working and Impact of Self-help Groups in Goa’, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September, 2001.
M. MANIKEKALAI AND G. RAJESWARI (2001) in their study analysed the socio-economic status of SHG women in rural micro enterprises and the nature of economic activities and performance in terms of growth indicators such as investment turnover, employment, capacity utilization, sources of finance and supplementary finance, marketing and other related aspects and identify the problems faced b y SHG women in running the enterprises. They concluded that the provision of micro finance by the Non-
Governmental Organisations to women SHGs has helped the groups to achieve a measure of economic and social empowerment. Further, they also mention that it has developed a sense of leadership, organsational skill, and management of various activities of business, right from acquiring finance, identifying raw material, market and suitable diversification and modernisation.19
Krishnaish .P (2002) in his thesis examined the growth and development of Self-help
Groups. He felt that the self-help group approach to development was based essentially on the social mobilization model that was being advocated by the different multilateral agencies. In fact the failure of top down bureaucratic approaches to rural development has necessitated the emergence of people based and participatory oriented strategy of development in recent years. He further find that the linkage of SHGs with banking institutions is proceeding at a rapid rate in the promotion of SHGs, definitely the social
19 Manikekalai. M. and G. Rajeshwari, “Nature and performance of Informal Self-help Groups – A Case from Tamil Nadu”’ Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol.56, No.3, July- September, 2001. benefits of SHGs far outweigh the private and social costs of SHGs. Hence, the case for their further expansion.20
Ama Rao and Kurmacharyulu (2002) made a case study in Vizinagaram district on the topic of women empowerment through DWCRA. The main objective of the study is to examine the composition and working of DWCRA SHGs in poor economic setting and to examine and measure the impact of DWCRA scheme on different aspects of the life styles of the poor. Rapid programme Appraisal Research Methodology is adopted.
The study focuses on socio-economic characteristics of the group members, and how far the formation of SHGs and the training imparted to them helps in transmitting people from poverty to prosperity. The findings focus on the success of the DWCRA scheme in Vizianagaram district.21
Shanmugam (2002) conducted a study on NABARD’s Initiatives in Women
Empowerment. In his study he has covered aspects like NABARD’s experience in women development, NABARD exclusive schemes for women. Women Self Help
Groups, highlights of SHG linkage and strategy for gender equality by institution agencies. The researcher finally concludes that NABARD is also seized of the need for transition of the SHG members as micro entrepreneurs with gainful employment opportunities for sustainable income generation. Empowerment of women will be truly
20 Krishnaiah, P., “Growth and development of Self-help Groups”, Serials Publications, New Delhi, 2002.
21 Rama Rao.R and Kurmacharyulu.D, women Empowerment through DWCRA – A Case study in Vizianagaram District, Ranga Reddy, ed., Empowerment of Women and Ecological Development, Serials Publication, 2002,p.79. meaningful if their economic upliftment is also ensured side by side to enable the poor women lead a decent, prosperous and respectful life.22
Hemalatha (2002) conducted a study on programme for empowering Rural women a case study of DWCRA in Mysore District. She focused that gender is very important in development, significantly as it gives not only an opportunity for women to take up the fruits of development process, but also have control over their lives. According to her study, the DWCRA programme has enabled the women not only to augment their income through SHGs, but also to make a decision on spending the same. The DWCRA
programme indirectly influenced the women’s development as they have improved their awareness on the various development programmes.23
Kimberly Wilson and Maro D’Silva (2002) studied the role of SHGs in preventing
Rural Emergencies, throughout India. Flood, cyclone, drought, earthquake and landslide threaten the survival of rural households. Natural disasters quickly turn into emergencies for poor families because of their extreme physical and socio-economic vulnerability. Traditionally, conventional response by the relief service providers – government institutions, donors and local NGOs – focus on responding to an emergency as it happens. Shortcomings of this approach are a disaster becomes an emergency, responses often exclude women’s priorities, local markets become depressed, logistics are uncoordinated and responses do not leverage local resources.
22 Shanmugam.K, NABARD ‘s Initiatives in Women Empowerment quited in Dr.A.Ranga deddy (ed.) Empowerment of Women and Ecological Development, Serials Publication, New Delhi 2002,pp,71-88. 23 Hemalatha.H.M, Programme for Empowering Rural women, quoted in Vijaya Kumar.S, Vasudeva Rao.D, Venkata Ravi.R.ed. Emancipation of Massess for Social Development, Sereal Publication, New Delhi, 2002,pp.40-41.
The findings of the review revealed dramatic reduction in costs of relief effort using
SHGs. Besides reduction in relief cost, there was improvement in socio economic results.24
Pughazhendi and Badatya K.C. (2002) conducted a study on SHG – Bank – Linkage
Programme for Rural poor an impact assessment. The study is based on primary details collected from 115 members in 60 SHGs. The socio-economic conditions of the members were compared between pre and post SHG situations to quantify the impact.
The study findings concluded that SHG – Bank Linkage programme has made
significant contribution to social and economic improvement of the member households of SHGs.25
Malcolm Harper (2002): made a study on role of (Self Help Promotion Institutions)
SHPIs in the promotion of SHGs. The objective of this study was to examine and compare the different ways Self Help Promotion Institutions (SHPIs) promote SHGs in order to enhance the efficiency and quality of the SHG promotion process. The following are the major findings in brief. The banks, particularly co-operatives are linked in the medium term to be the main SHPIs. They should support and eventually be replaced by SHG members own initiatives. The SHPI roles of SHG federations and of non-volunteer individuals should be examined. Incentive Schemes for NGOs and to
24 Kimberley Wilson and Maro D’Silva, The Role of SHGs in preventing Rural Emergencies, Asia pacific rural Fenance Volume 5 (4), April –June 2002.
25 Puhazhendi.V and Badatya.K.C., SHG-Bank Linkage Programme for Rural poor. An Impact assessment ,www. Nabard.org.2002. individuals should be redesigned and tested in order to cover the full costs of the SHPI.
Training should include hands on SHG promotion for lower grade bank staff and improved understanding of the importance of access vs.the cost of finance. The management of the schemes to encourage SHG promotion should be experimentally delegated to banks, in order to avoid the problems caused by NABARD’s within district representation and to take full advantage of banks greater field coverage.26
Narasimhulu and Annapurna (2002) made a study on women empowerment and
DWCRA programme in Chittoor District. In the study, they bring out that to serve the purpose of women empowerment the government of Andhra Pradesh has taken up the
theme of women’s empowerment as one of the main agenda to tackle rural poverty and socio-economic issues. Women have taken up self Help movement through thrift and savings as a mass movement to shape their future destiny. The state government is consciously making an effort to assess these SHGs by providing revolving fund under
DWCRA. The study gives the details of DWCRA groups in Chittoor District. The problems of DWCRA members have been found out and suggestions have been given by the researcher.27
Lalitha and Nagarajan (2002) have carried out the research on – Self Help Groups in
Rural Development in three districts if Tamil Nadu namely Dindigul, Madurai and
26 Malcolm Harper, Role of SHPIs in promotion of SHGs, www. NABARD.org. 2002.
27 Narasimhulu.K and annapurana.K., Presented a pater on Women Empowerment and DWCRA Programme in Chittor district women Empowerment and Ecological Development. Serials publication, New Delhi, 2002,pp.232-237.
Theni. The study highlights the progress of SHGs in India with special reference to
Tamil Nadu. It also examines the structure, typology and mode of functioning of SHGs promoted by different NGOs. The study analyses the socio-economic background and performance on Self Help Groups. This study provides ample evidence to the fact that the organization of women in the form of SHGs has laid the seeds for economic and social empowerment of women.28
Dwaraknath (2002) conducted a study on Rural credit and women self Help Groups of Ranga Reddy district in Andhra Pradesh. The study reveals that the Self Help
Groups movement in the district had a greater vision of empowerment of rural women for overall human development. This movement developed thrift as a habit among the
rural poor women and paved the way for decision-making power for women in the family. It has also created greater awareness among the women groups about socio- economic political conditions prevailing in and around the district.29
Malathi (2003) in her research on impact of Women Self Groups reveals the status of
Women SHGs in rural, urban and tribal area of Tiruchirappalli district. The study reveals some type of attitudinal changes in the families. Through SHGs the women realize their strength. They are aware of the importance of savings, the scope of credit in income generating activities. SHGs have brought participation in decision-making, planning and implementation in participation of economic, social, cultural and other
28 Lalitha, M and Nagarajan.B.S., Self-Help Groups in Rural Development, Dominant Publishers and Distributors, New Delhi (2002) pp. 198-209.
29 Dwaraknath, H.P., Rural Empowerment through Self Help groups. The monthly Journal, Kurukshetra, November 2002, pp,9-15. benefits. They act like facilitator or catalyst. The study gives hope that women can emerge well and improve their social and economic status.30
V.Nirmala et al. (2004) in their study analysed the determinants of earnings of rural women under SHG scheme in the pondicherry. They observed that SHG scheme has benefited many women by crasting reasonable incomes to them. Further their access to credit facilities has increased. However, the author pointed out that woman should also by provided with institutional support, like training, marketing and information on available latest technology along with credit so that they will benefit more.31
Shylendra . H.S (2004) made an attempt to critically assess the Self-help Groups Bank linkage programme focusing on its approach and the strategy and arrive at possible ways
to take it forward. He concluded that the key to success lies in retaining the basic character and strength of SHGs along with integrating them appropriately with outside systems to meet the needs of the members in an endearing way.32
Alka Srivastava (2005) focused the extent to which SHGs build up confidence and mutual support for women striving for social change by establishing a forum in which they can critically analyse their situation and devise collective strategies to solve their problems. The study also examined the impact of SHGs in the economic sphere, and to assess how these SHGs are working for the establishment of gender equality. He
30 Malthi V.P., Impact of Women Self Help groups in Tiruchirappalli District. Unpublished dissertation submitted to Alagappa University, Karaikudi, 2003. 31 Nirmala, V., K. Sham Bhat and P. Buvaneswari, “SHGs for Poverty Alleviation in Pondichery”, Journal on Rural development, Vol. 23(2) pp. 203-215,2004. 32 Shylendra, H.S. “The SHG-Bank Linkage Programme: an assessment and Future Strategies”, Journal of Rural development, Vol. 23(4), pp.411-433, 2004. suggested that although SHG under study have made some impact on the lives of women members, the impact is not significant.33
Pulla Rao D. (2005) examined the performance of 45 SHGs in Krishna district of
Andhra Pradesh. He observed that few of them were closed soon after they were set up. However, the SHGs which are functioning well have benefited the most disadvantaged groups i.e. the poorest of poor in the study area. He concluded that, to make SHGs financially more sustainable it is necessary to advance loans for activities which are not marginalized and which lead to production of goods that have few substitutes in urban manufacturers.34
Dr. Jitendra Ahirrao (2009) in his paper “Rural Women empowerment through microfinance’” reported that micro finance programmes are currently being promoted as
a key strategy for simultaneously addressing both poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment. There are a range of potential impacts including.
1. Increasing women’s income levels and control over income leading to greater
levels of economic independence.
2. Access to networks and markets giving wider experience of the world outside
the home, access to information and possibilities for development of other
social and political roles.
33 Alka, Srivatsava, , “women’s Self-help Groups: findings from a Study in Four Indian States”, Social Change, Vol. 35,No.2, June, 2005. 34 Pulla Rao, D., “Sustainability of Self-help Groups: The Case of Krishna District, Anadhra Pradesh”, The Indian Journal of Economics, Vol. XXXVI, No. 340, July 2005.
3. Enhancing perceptions of women’s contribution to household income and
family welfare, increasing women’s participation in household decisions about
expenditure and other issues and leading to greater expenditure on women’s
welfare.
4. More general improvements in attitudes to women’s role in the house hold and
community.35
Rajendran K. and Dr. R.P. Raya, (2010) conducted a study on ‘how and why women join in SHG in Vellore District Tamil Nadu State. The main objectives of the study was to find out who motivated women to form SHG and who motivated them to join in
SHGs, reasons for joining in SHGs and to find out the amount and purpose of utilization of micro finance. The study indicates that there is a significant difference between the respondents in the two blocks about who motivated and helped in the formation of SHGs. They concluded that Majority of women join in SHGs to get loan and there is a
productive utilization of loan in income generating activities. There is a diversification from farm activities to non-farm sector in rural areas as a result of joining in SHGs.36
Dr.J. Venkatesh and Ms.K. Kala (2010) have carried out the research on-
Empowering rural women all the way through Self-help Groups in south districts of
35 Dr. Jitendra Ahirrao, “Rural Women empowerment through microfinance” Indian Journal of Marketing, pp. 34- 41, ,2009.
36 K,Rajendran and Dr. R.P. Raya, “How and why women join in SHG in Vellore District Tamil Nadu State” Tamil nadu Journal of cooperation January 2010. Tamil Nadu. The study revels that the cram was embarked on the women empowerment of SHGs in the south Tamil Nadu. It is found after joining the SHGs the income of the women has been augmented. So that monthly household out flow also has been lifted considerable level. The first class practice of the women SHGs in the study area is repayment of the loan in time. They concluded that SHGs in South Tamil
Nadu are very victorious to extend women empowerment in rural areas.37
A.S. Shiralahetti(2010) focuses on women empowerment through Self-help Groups.
The author highlighted the reasons for joining SHGs. Purpose and repayment of loan, monthly income, expenditure and savings paten before and after joining SHGs. He also highlighted opinion of SHGs members regarding increase in power of family decision making. It concluded that there has been tremendous progress in the social and cultural environment in India. Women are now participation in all productive activities and are at par with men, the SHG movement in India has hen working in the right direction, but
is necessary to empower more and more women is social, cultural, economic, political and legal matters for the interest of the family in particular and the nation in general.38
Prabhakara Shrma (2011) has conducted a study on the role of women through empowerment with SHGs. In this study an attempt has been made to economic
37 Dr. J. Venkatesh and Ms.K. Kala , International Journal of Management (IJRM) ISSN 0976 – 6502, Volume I, Aug-Sep. 2010.
38 A.S. Shiralahetti “women empowerment through Self-help Groups”, The IUP Journal of Entrepreneurship Development, Vol. VII Nos. 1&2, 2010 independence and evaluate the working Patten of Self-help Group and also study the decision making capacity of members of SHGs in their families. He highlights the income position after joining in SHGs. He found that 80% of the group member expressed that their income has been increased after joining SHGs. However the remaining 20% could not increase their income because they were forced to spend for domestic personal affairs rather than for income generation actives. They also gained experience and freedom in spending their earning in meeting their need. He suggested that effective training programmes for the members of the self-help groups should be short-term in nature. However, effective and efficient working can be done only with the help of long-term and continuous training which can be of great help to the community at large. 39
Based on the review of literature it is learnt most of the studies concentrate in analysing performance of SHGs, Bank linkage programme, Micro credit under various schemes. Even such studies were not undertaken in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu during the last ten years to assess the socio-economic conditions of members of women SHGs. Hence the present study is undertaken to have an in-depth analysis of the impact of women SHGs on socio-economic conditions of their members.
39 Prabhakara Shrma “A study to role of women through empowerment with SHGs”. AJBMR, Volume 6, No. 1, March 2011.
CHAPTER - III
GROWTH OF WOMEN SHGs IN
NAGAPATTINAM DISTRICT
CHAPTER - III
GROWTH OF WOMEN SHGs IN NAGAPATTINAM DISTRICT
The SHG scheme was introduced by Government of India in 1982, with the main objective of alleviating poverty. SHG is an unregistered voluntary association of people from same socio-economic condition and they are primarily involving themselves in savings and credit. SHG may be either women or men. Some of them are mixed type. But more than 90% of the groups are women SHGs. SHGs have created socio-economic awareness among rural women. The movement empowered women economically and able to contribute to increase the level of their family income and thereby developed their family economically. SHGs conducted social awareness programmes which created social awareness among the members and they encouraged rural women in participating community development programme launched by
TNWDC ltd. The awareness and participation helped women members to empower them socially.
FORMATION OF SHGs BLOCK – WISE
During last decade, India had a tremendous growth of SHGs in different forms in different regions. In southern region, the movement of SHGs has shown good results in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The poor status of Indian women in villages is slowly transformed with the help of SHGs. The dynamic SHGs movement in Tamil Nadu has created a revolution and has become the women’s own movement leading to their social, economic and political empowerment. Today this programme covers almost all the blocks and Panchayats in Nagapattinam district. There
are eleven blocks in Nagapattinam District namely, Nagapattinam, Thirumarugal,
Kilvelur, Keelaiyur, Thalainayar, Vedharanyam, Mayiladuthurai, Sembanarkoil,
Sirkali, Kuttalam, and Kollidam. The block wise formation of Women SHGs during the study period has been analysed and results are presented in Table 3.1(a) and 3.1(b)
TABLE 3.1(a) TOTAL NUMBER OF SELF HELP GROUPS FORMED - BLOCK WISE
Year/ Nagapattinam Thirumarugal Kilvelur Keelaiyur Thalainayar Vedharanyam Block
SHGs SHGs SHGs SHGs SHGs SHGs % % % % % % (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.)
2001 - 02 22 35 38 63 31 48 2002 - 03 31 41 51 46 28 -36 85 35 32 3 66 38 2003 - 04 114 418 86 146 69 82 96 52 57 84 82 71 2004 - 05 76 245 114 226 89 134 122 94 72 132 58 21 2005 - 06 171 677 108 209 87 129 198 214 201 548 112 133 2006 - 07 112 409 130 271 125 229 150 138 180 481 118 146 2007 - 08 102 363 57 63 50 32 35 -44 76 145 87 81 2008 - 09 62 189 20 -43 11 -71 28 -56 20 -35 52 8 2009 - 10 145 559 6 -83 8 -79 69 10 6 -81 116 142 2010 - 11 146 564 3 -91 7 -82 102 62 3 -90 235 390 2011 - 12 136 518 19 -46 5 -87 84 33 19 -39 306 538 2014 - 15 132 - 161 - 57 - 391 - 53 - 935 - Mean 101.55 57.18 47.00 93.82 63.36 116.36 SD 48.64 45.68 40.70 49.40 67.55 81.77 CV 47.90 79.89 86.59 52.66 106.61 70.27 AAGR 44.54 45.43 -1.58 19.29 55.83 32.03 LGR 9.19 -11.94 -12.09 -2.51 -8.01 15.87 CGR 14.72 -21.41 -21.68 -3.13 -18.28 14.52 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
SHGs (No.) – Number of SHGs % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR=- Average Annual Growth Rate, LGR= Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
TABLE 3.1(b) TOTAL NUMBER OF SELF HELP GROUPS FORMED - BLOCK WISE
Year/ Mayiladuthurai Sembanarkoil Sirkali Kuttalam Kollidam Total Block
SHGs SHGs SHGs SHGs SHGs SHGs % % % % % % (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.)
2001 - 02 142 105 46 96 32 658 2002 - 03 201 42 188 79 20 -57 102 6 35 9 839 26 2003 - 04 209 47 156 49 151 228 24 -75 50 56 1094 66 2004 - 05 50 -65 153 46 163 254 51 -47 64 100 1012 54 2005 - 06 68 -52 208 98 279 507 82 -15 589 1740 2103 220 2006 - 07 77 -46 190 81 275 498 90 -6 350 994 1797 173 2007 - 08 104 -27 84 -20 51 11 65 -32 66 106 777 18 2008 - 09 97 -32 52 -50 30 -35 79 -18 49 53 500 -24 2009 - 10 112 -21 290 176 312 578 20 -79 136 325 1220 85 2010 - 11 106 -25 273 160 230 400 18 -81 209 553 1332 102 2011 - 12 163 15 291 177 219 376 22 -77 208 550 1472 124 2014 - 15 397 - 880 - 644 - -171 - 231 - 4332 - Mean 120.82 180.91 161.45 59.00 162.55 1164.00 SD 52.25 81.57 109.69 33.17 173.16 488.77 CV 43.25 45.09 67.94 56.22 106.53 41.99 AAGR 11.09 45.19 146.25 4.41 98.38 21.49 LGR -3.28 6.76 9.54 -10.46 7.16 3.18 CGR -1.79 5.02 14.26 -12.12 16.49 3.51 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
SHGs (No.) – Number of SHGs % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV= Coefficient of variation, AAGR= Average Annual Growth Rate, LGR= Linear Growth rate, CGR= Compound Growth Rate
The average groups formed in the sample district over the period of study was
106.The analysis highlights that Sembanarkoil block (181), Koillidam block (163),
Sirkali block (161), Mayiladuthurai block (121) and Vedharanayam block (116) were kept their levels of formation higher than the district average. On the other hand,
Nagapattinam block (102), Thirumarugal block (57), Kilvelur block (47), Keelaiyur block (94), Thalainayar (63) and Kuttalam block (59) were kept their level of formation below the district average. The trend in formation of SHGs block wise for
Nagapattinam district has been shown diagrammatically in Chart 3.1.
Chart 3.1 Block wise total number of SHGs formed
It is clear from the above analysis that less awareness, poor status and illiteracy are major causes for the less number of groups formed. It is suggested that the
TNWDC and NGOs will have to create awareness and motivate the women in the rural folk to form themselves as SHG. For this purpose, they have to design programmes so as to make women to understand the concept of SHG and infuse the minds of rural women folk and thereby won their confidence.
MEMBERSHIP – BLOCK WISE
The number of members in SHGs is normally ranged from 10 to 20. It is expected that, within the group, there should be true democratic culture in which all the members must participate actively in the decision making process by taking the cohesiveness among the members. This may be due to homogeneity of the groups in terms of education, occupation, income distribution, sex composition. But in the long run the stability of SHGs depends on their members’ loyalty and the solvency of SHGs cater to the growing needs of the members. Women empowerment and eradication of poverty under micro finance schemes are possible through the formation of SHGs.
SHG formation develops two important culture viz., thrift and savings and prompt repayment. The groups can avail themselves financial facilities offered by the financial institutions and the Government. The members can also individually apply for the credit facilities. However, there are certain norms and prescribed procedures for obtaining credit. Frequently, the group should convene meeting of its members and discuss all the issues relating to the groups on a common platform. This provides an opportunity for members to express freely their views, expectations and suggestions for improving the functioning of the group. Government agencies and NGOs regularly organize training programmes, for imparting knowledge and skills among members. These programmes enable the members to learn, co-operate and work in a group environment.
The formation of SHGs in rural areas has created awareness among women both in social and economic aspects. Now most of the women are able to increase their income level and also contribute to the development of their family. Many of the women are participating in the financial decisions of the family, which they are not earlier able to do. Apart from financial aspects, it also becomes a platform for exchanging ideas regarding AIDS prevention, dowry, nutrition, marital laws, literacy, sanitation, child rear etc. Leadership qualities are developed through SHG meetings and it is seen that 3500 women became presidents or members of local bodies in the sample district.40 Thus the empowerment of women through SHGs has benefited not only the individual woman but also her family and community as a whole. The block wise strength of SHGs membership position in Nagapattinam district during the period of study has been analysed and results are presented in Table 3.2(a) and 3.2(b).
40 1. Annual report 2011 of TNWDC - Nagapattinam
TABLE 3.2(a) TOTAL NUMBER OF SHGs’ MEMBERS - BLOCK WISE
Year/ Nagapattinam Thirumarugal Kilvelur Keelaiyur Thalainayar Vedharanyam Block SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ Members % Members % Members % Members % Members % Members % (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) 2001 - 356 - 602 - 618 - 1028 - 512 - 668 - 02 2002 - 538 51 921 53 434 30 1374 34 570 11 760 14 03 2003 - 1749 391 1549 157 1009 63 1573 53 993 94 1730 159 04 2004 - 1228 245 1898 215 1470 138 1893 84 1204 135 995 49 05 2005 - 2673 651 1595 165 2425 292 2880 180 2845 456 1975 196 06 2006 - 1680 372 1820 202 2000 224 2250 119 2160 322 1770 165 07 2007 - 1428 301 855 42 1000 62 700 -32 1140 123 1305 95 08 2008 - 930 161 320 -47 165 -73 420 -59 300 -41 780 17 09 2009 - 2320 552 108 -83 120 -81 1035 0.68 90 -82 1740 160 10 2010 - 2190 515 60 -90 105 -83 1530 49 54 -89 3525 428 11 2011 - 2040 473 285 -53 80 -87 1260 23 304 -41 4590 587 12 2014 - 5239 15 - 2993 - 1028 - 5770 - 1407 - 14947 - Mean 1557.45 910.27 856.91 1449.36 924.73 1803.45 SD 742.45 698.87 813.12 701.30 887.08 1228.66 CV 47.67 76.78 94.89 48.39 95.93 68.13 AAGR 41.41 29.06 -0.12 16.65 45.11 37.64 LGR 8.70 -13.23 -11.36 -3.11 -9.17 14.92 CGR 13.58 -21.65 -22.15 -3.78 -18.82 14.5 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
SHGs’ Members, (No.) – Number of SHGs’ Members % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year. SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
TABLE 3.2(b) TOTAL NUMBER OF SHGs’ MEMBERS - BLOCK WISE
Year/ Mayiladuthurai Sembanarkoil Sirkali Kuttalam Kollidam Total Block SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ SHGs’ Members % Members % Members % Members % Members % Members % (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) (No.) 2001 - 02 2272 - 1880 - 746 - 1636 - 612 - 10930 - 2002 - 03 3121 37 3024 61 263 65 1781 9 700 14 13486 25 - 2003 - 3157 39 2429 29 2607 249 494 918 50 18208 80 04 70 - 2004 - 621 -73 2488 32 2630 253 898 1120 83 16445 51 05 45 - 2005 - 1343 -41 3523 87 3022 305 1152 6380 942 29813 179 06 30 - 2006 - 1078 -53 2470 31 3300 342 1350 4900 701 24778 126 07 17 - 2007 - 1768 -22 1260 -33 1020 37 1105 1320 116 12901 15 08 32 - 2008 - 1455 -36 780 -59 450 40 1185 735 20 7520 -35 09 28 - 2009 - 1680 -26 4350 131 4680 527 300 2040 233 18463 84 10 82 - 2010 - 1590 -30 4095 118 3450 362 288 3135 412 20022 83 11 82 - 2011 - 2445 7.61 4365 132 3285 340 330 3120 410 22104 110 12 80 2014 - 15 5578 - 13620 - 9807 - 574 - 3269 - 66467 - Mean 1866.36 2787.64 2313.91 956.27 2270.91 17697 SD 804.71 1214.18 1459.61 538.20 1922.38 6436.45 CV 43.12 43.56 63.08 56.28 84.65 36.37 AAGR 16.49 42.67 163.55 -1.12 62.73 18.78 LGR -3.70 5.48 9.94 -11.94 7.93 2.47 CGR -2.02 3.54 14.45 -13.75 13.70 2.52 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
SHGs’ Members, (No.) – Number of SHGs’ Members % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
It is evident from the table that the number of SHGs members registered a steady growth in respect of all the sample blocks during the study periods. A large number of members enrolled as members in SHGs in eleven blocks in Nagapattinam district. The first place secured by Sembanarkoil block and followed by Sirkali, Kollidam,
Mayiladuthurai and Vedharanyam block. The average membership registration in these blocks was 2788, 2314, 2271, 1866 and 1803 members respectively, which are higher than the average level of membership enrolment in the district (1609). The
Chart 3.2 shows the trend in membership enrolment for all the sample blocks pictorially.
Chart: 3.2 Block wise Total number of SHGs members
It is observed that the awareness about the impact of women SHGs is more in these blocks; hence, a large number of members registered their names in SHGs for their socio-economic development. On the other hand, the average number of membership enrolment in Nagapattinam, Keelaiyur , Kuttalam , Thalainayar ,
Thirumarugal and Kilvelur blocks were 1557, 1449, 956, 925, 910 and 857 members, which are below the average level in the district. It is suggested that the benefit of women SHGs like training, for self development, inculcate the habit of saving, loan facility, opportunity for entrepreneurial development and increase the income earning capacity are exposed through conducting large number of awareness programmes at every Panchayat by the TNWDC.
SHGs SAVING - BLOCK WISE
The basic objective of self help groups is to develop saving capability among the poorest sections of the society, which in turn reduce dependence on financial institutions and develop self-reliance. Hitherto every poverty alleviation programme initiated by the Government of India had failed in capacity building of the rural masses.
Therefore, they become more and more depend on financial support. Savings have generally been neglected in the poverty alleviation programmes. The poor are unable to save due to their lack of cash surplus. The meager earnings of artisans and operators of micro-enterprises allow savings, which have been too small and irregular to attract the development of organized mechanisms for their accumulation in a financial system.
SHG is homogeneous group of rural poor voluntarily formed to save small amount out of their earnings, which is convenient to all the members and agreed upon by all to form a common fund/corpus for the group to be lent to the members for meeting their productive and emergent credit needs. The block wise saving position in Nagapattinam district during the period of study has been analysed and results are presented in Table
3.3(a) and 3.3(b).
TABLE 3.3(a) SHGs’ SAVING - BLOCK WISE (Rs. in lakhs)
Year/ Nagapattinam Thirumarugal Kilvelur Keelaiyur Thalainayar Vedharanyam Block Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % 2001 - 02 30.11 - 36.92 - 79.92 - 12.84 - 48.31 - 27.85 - - 2002 - 39.07 30 55.5 50 59.61 31.91 148 28.63 -41 34.24 230 03 25 2003 - 04 118.94 295 148.37 302 90.83 14 100.23 681 125.93 161 50.64 82 2004 - 05 157.41 423 114.44 210 133.94 68 148.28 1055 85.74 77 67.42 142 2005 - 06 137.55 357 111.96 203 135.92 70 68.17 431 35.07 -38 87.36 214 2006 - 07 144.55 380 113.65 208 95.25 19 75.4 487 161.25 360 163.25 486 2007 - 08 146.55 387 105.25 185 86.25 8 82.25 541 185.35 429 169.27 508 2008 - 09 155.58 417 121.92 230 111.26 39 96.37 651 111.8 483 148.52 433 2009 - 10 163.92 444 114.64 211 127.61 60 112.35 775 123.54 156 156.23 461 2010 - 11 176.14 485 124.18 236 135.55 70 122.57 856 137.32 185 172.25 519 2011 - 12 182.24 505 136.58 270 142.59 78 145.68 1035 141.58 193 178.94 543 2014 - 449.44 15 199.46 - 133.77 - 138.65 - 180.63 - 168.54 - - Mean 132.01 107.58 108.98 90.55 107.68 114.18 SD 51.27 32.94 28.02 42.75 52.02 60.62 CV 38.84 30.62 25.72 47.21 48.31 53.09 AAGR 28.28 21.49 9.16 43.79 56.79 23.12 LGR 9.98 5.75 5.28 9.77 9.26 14.88 CGR 15.69 8.58 5.97 16.92 13.35 21.46 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
% represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate TABLE 3.3(b) SHGs’ SAVING - BLOCK WISE (Rs. in lakhs)
Mayiladuthurai Sembanarkoil Sirkali Kuttalam Kollidam Total Year/ Block Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % Rs. % Rs. %
2001 - 02 25.93 - 26.25 - 34.85 - 29.41 - 2.34 - 355 - 2002 - 03 57.77 123 36.01 41 39.55 13 42.72 45 26.91 1050 452 27 2003 - 04 126.68 389 109.59 316 204.95 488 174.05 492 65.55 2701 1316 271 2004 - 05 197.32 661 133.98 410 258.96 643 159.95 444 105.64 4415 1563 340 2005 - 06 169.25 553 165.35 530 272.66 682 167.35 469 123.28 5168 1474 315 2006 - 07 179.38 592 177.53 576 286.35 722 174.65 494 132.58 5566 1704 380 2007 - 08 203.68 685 143.26 446 283.94 715 185.34 530 195.38 8250 1787 403 2008 - 09 208.38 704 168.35 541 302.16 767 188.63 541 215.68 9117 1829 415 2009 - 10 210.69 713 172.25 556 328.35 842 202.12 587 216.35 9146 1928 443 2010 - 11 219.65 747 184.55 603 336.21 865 214.25 628 218.16 9223 2041 475 2011 - 12 214.38 726 182.66 596 342.18 882 217.32 639 221.68 9374 2106 493 2014 - 15 286.54 - 254.94 - 490.09 - 375.48 - 252.63 - 3025 - Mean 164.83 136.34 244.56 159.62 138.50 1505 SD 66.68 56.81 109.61 63.83 81.35 593.54 CV 40.46 41.67 44.82 39.99 58.73 39.44 AAGR 30.84 30.12 48.68 37.6 133.95 26.89 LGR 10.47 10.74 11.86 10.17 17.11 10.75 CGR 17.48 17.68 21.86 17.06 39.47 16.27 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
% represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate.
It is evident from the Table that the amount of saving by the member of SHGs registered a steady growth of Rs.2106 lakhs in 2011-12 from Rs.355 lakhs in 2001-02 in respect of all sample blocks during the study period. The average amount of saving in the sample district over the period was Rs.136.81 lakhs. The analysis highlights that
Sirkali block (Rs.244.56 lakhs), Mayiladuthurai block (Rs.164.83 lakhs), Kuttalam block (Rs.159.62 lakhs), and Koillidam block (Rs.138.50) kept their level of saving above the district average. On the other hand Sembanarkoil block (Rs.136.34 lakhs),
Nagapattinam block (Rs.132.01), Vedharanayam block (Rs.114.18 lakhs), Thalainayar block (Rs.107.68 lakhs), Thirumarugal block (Rs.107.58 lakhs), Kilvelur block
(Rs.108.98 lakhs) and Keelaiyur block (Rs.90.55 lakhs) were not able to keep their level of saving above the district average. The above trend in SHGs savings of sample blocks are diagrammatically shown in Chart 3.3.
Chart 3.3 Amount of SHGs saving (Rs. In lakhs)
It is clear from the above analysis that seasonal under employment, increase in cost of living and inadequate income are the reasons that lead to small and tinny saving among the members of SHGs. The revolving fund and bank loan are provided on the basis of savings. Further internal lending also depends largely on the savings of the groups. Hence, saving plays a predominant role in the performance of self-help groups.
It is suggested that TWDC ltd. and NGOs have to draw suitable programme to inculcate the habit of thrift and savings among members of SHGs. It is very significant that the programme to be chalked out to infuse the minds of rural women and thereby won their confidence. If the rural folk are aware of the importance of savings and have trust and confidence on the SHGs, they will be in a position to contribute their tiny and small amount as savings to their Groups. TWDC and NGOs have to encourage them to involve in income generating economic activities. To achieve this purpose, micro enterprise at their place is to be established. Proper guidance and necessary training are to be provided by TNWDC and NGOs. In order to augment the amount of saving, the frequency of saving may be shifted from monthly to weekly. In regard to amount of savings from members must be ‘members choice based,’ which enable the members to deposit varied amount subject to a minimum amount fixed by the group to improve the skills of leaders and members of SHGs.
SHGs TRAINING PROGRAMME
The SHGs training programmes are conducted by TNWDC ltd. in Nagapattinam
District. The programme aims to improve the knowledge and skills of leaders and members of women SHGs. TNWDC provides fund for the conduct of the programme.
The training is given by registered NGO at block level. Even though SHGs are voluntary association, NGOs are taking efforts to guide the rural people in the formation of SHGs and Tamil Nadu State Government supports them financially.
During the course of study, it is probed that Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu took lead in the provision of fund for the purpose of imparting training to the members of SHGs.
Nagapattinam district among other districts in the State, availed significant proportion of fund from Tamil Nadu Government. The particulars of SHGs training programme conducted by TNWDC in the sample district in terms of the number of training, participants of SHGs and their members, allocation of fund and its utilization over the period of study are analysed and results are presented in Table 3.4.
TABLE 3.4 SHGs TRAINING PROGRAMME CONDUCTED BY TNWDC NAGAPATTINAM
Amount allotted and spent for Training details Year/ Training (Rs. in lakhs) No. of Amount Amount No. of No. of Training Training % SHGs % % allotted % spent % Beneficiary conducted Attended Rs. Rs. 2001 - 02 52 132 1684 28.04 28.04 2002 - 03 48 -8 170 29 2140 27 31.17 11 31.23 11 2003 - 04 62 19 220 67 2635 56 35.42 26 35.42 26 2004 - 05 46 12 212 61 2542 51 34.12 22 34.17 22 2005 - 06 54 4 420 218 5140 205 72.19 157 72.24 158 2006 - 07 62 19 367 178 4414 162 26.74 -5 21.52 -23 2007 - 08 43 -17 160 21 1926 14 30.25 8 28.25 0.74 2008 - 09 48 -8 102 23 1234 27 20.75 -26 19.76 -30 2009 - 10 51 -2 264 100 3268 94 21.92 -22 19.96 -29 2010 - 11 53 2 286 117 3432 104 61.23 118 40.31 44 2011 - 12 61 17 310 135 3620 115 53.1 89 47.92 71 2014 - 15 105 - 901 - 10244 - 186.53 - 171.39 - Mean 52.73 240.27 2912.27 37.72 34.44 SD 6.56 99.66 1192.64 16.87 15.26 CV 12.44 41.48 40.95 44.73 44.30 AAGR 3.41 22.3 21.78 22.32 18.55 LGR 0.43 3.81 3.41 3.29 0.44 CGR 0.42 4.15 3.64 2.38 -0.05 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
It is observed from the table that, the number of training of programme
conducted in the sample district increased to 61 in 2011-12 from 52 in 2001-02 over the
period of study and thereby registered 17 percent growth. The number of SHGs
participated in such training programme raised to 310 groups with 3620 members in
2011-12 from 132 groups with 1684 beneficiaries in 2001-02 and registering an
increase of 135 percent in respect of SHGs and 115 percent in regard to beneficiary over the period. It is observed from the Table 3.4 that 420 women SHGs attended the training programme during 2005-06, which is mainly due to allocation of more funds.
The Table 3.4 also revels that the fund allocated for SHGs training increased to Rs.53.1 lakhs in 2011- 2012 from Rs.28.04 lakhs in 2001-02 and thereby recorded a fluctuating trend in respect of allocation and utilization of fund. Further it has been ascertained that the average participants of SHGs in the training was 240 out of 1164 average SHGs formed in the sample district. It covered only one – fourth of the average SHGs formed in the sample district. Moreover, the average number of beneficiaries participated in the training was 2912 members out of 17667 average members of SHGs in the district
It is clear from the above analysis that the participation of SHGs and their members is considered as very low. The matter of low level of attendance in the training programme is probed during the course of study. To attend the programmes the members have to sacrifice their wages on the duration of training and they are not afford to incur travelling expenses but paid out of their own pocket. It is suggested that
TNWDC and NGOs will have to conduct the SHGs training at every Panchayat level, which will be convenient to attend by the members of SHGs at their local place. The
Government and TNWDC will have to increase the amount of incentive to the participant from Rs.50 to Rs.100 each, moreover the trained and experienced members of SHGs may be considered as resource persons for conducting training to other members.
ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
The TNWDC with the help of Block Development Office has organized a network programme to impart skill oriented EDP to build up the capacity of rural women in the district. The training facilities given to the members of SHGs include specific areas such as product selection, quality of product, production techniques, managerial ability, packing and other technical knowledge . The EDP is conducted at regular intervals in district head office of TNWDC and registered NGOs at block level.
For which, Tamil Nadu Government allotted fund and was utilized by the TNWDC.
The particulars relating to the EDP like number of training programme conducted, participant of SHGs and their members, allocation of fund and its utilization over the period of study are analysed and results are presented in Table 3.5.
TABLE 3.5 ENTERPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME TRAINING CONDUCTED BY TNWDC NAGAPATTINAM
Year/ Amount allotted and spent for Training details Training training (Rs. in lakhs) No. of No. of Amount Amount No. of Training % SHGs % % allotted % spent % Beneficiary conducted Attended Rs. Rs. 2001 - 02 36 - 145 - 1640 - 1.52 - 1.52 - 2002 - 03 36 0 135 -7 1620 -1 1.75 15 1.76 16 2003 - 04 63 75 162 12 2044 25 2.12 39 2.12 39 2004 - 05 85 136 136 -6 1532 -7 3.11 105 3.12 105 2005 - 06 75 108 140 -3 1580 -4 2.52 68 2.45 61 2006 - 07 70 94 130 -10 1467 -11 2.63 73 2.63 73 2007 - 08 36 0 300 107 3540 116 1.86 22 2.15 41 2008 - 09 95 164 126 -13 1658 1 6.55 331 6.54 330 2009 - 10 97 169 125 -14 1540 -6 6.25 473 6.26 311 2010 - 11 95 164 125 -14 1675 2 6.14 304 6.16 305 2011 - 12 104 189 136 -6 1632 -0.5 7.21 374 7.21 374 2014 - 15 207 - -39 - -468 - 10.22 - 9.81 - Mean 72.00 150.91 1811.64 3.79 3.81 SD 26.19 50.60 592.15 2.24 2.22 CV 36.37 33.53 32.69 59.12 58.27 AAGR 21.63 7.36 8.31 30.23 26.64 LGR 8.32 0.34 0.44 15.50 15.51 CGR 9.49 -0.72 0.2 16.96 17.13
Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year. SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
The Table 3.5 depicts that the number of EDPT conducted by TNWDC ltd in
Nagapattinam district has gradually increased from 36 in 2001-02 to 104 in 2011-12 over the period of the study and thereby registered 189 percent growth. The number of
SHGs and their member participation in EDP has shown a decreasing trend of 5 percent in respect of SHGs and 0.5 percent in respect of member beneficiary over the study periods. The maximum number of SHGs attended the EDP is 300 with 3540 member beneficiaries during 2007-08. After the Tsunami, the Government of Tamil
Nadu gave more importance to SHGs situated in coastal area in Nagapattinam district surrounded by more number of coastal villages. As a result of EDP, efforts were drawn to increase their earning capacity by generated economic activities such as brick making, toys making, tailoring, prawn culture, vegetable cultivation, agriculture, dairying, wire making and fancy store.
Table 3.5 also indicates that the amount allotted for the EDP gradually increased from Rs.1.52 lakhs in 2001-02 to Rs.7.21 lakhs in 2011-12 and thereby registered 374 percent growth. On the other hand almost the entire funds provided were utilized for such training throughout the study period. It has been found that the average annual growth rate of fund allotted for EDP is 30.23 percent; the AAGR in respect of participation of SHGs is 7.36 percent, similarly the AAGR of member beneficiary is 8.31 percent, which are lower than the growth rate of the fund allotted.
The analysis has also highlighted that the participation of member beneficiary has not kept its pace with the growth of fund provided for the purpose.
It is observed that the training facilities given to the members of SHGs are not adequate. The training facilities may be extended to all SHGs in the district. Further arrangements are to be made to encourage the trained members to give training to the remaining members of the group. It has been suggested that the TNWDC and their registered NGOs will have to take necessary steps to increase the number of participants in EDP. For this purpose, members of women SHGs are to be enlightened on the importance of EDP. The socio-economic condition of members will be increased through the programme. The participation of the training programme certainly have its impact on developing entrepreneurial skill, increasing employment opportunities, and generating income earning capacity. The members who have interest in starting micro enterprises are to be identified and they should be encouraged in participating
EDP.
VOCATIONAL TRAINING
Vocational training is a significant key to the human resource development for enhancing labour productivity and thus empowering the workers. The block wise available material, manpower, production technology and marketing opportunities are identified by the TNWDC with the help of district administration, for preparation of training lesson contents and conducting vocational training to women SHGs. An innovative vocational training programme aims to involve technologically qualified
SHGs members to manufacture various commodities with export quality and thereby develop their socio-economical condition. The information relating to vocational training conducted by TNWDC such as number of training programme, participants of
SHGs and their member, allocation of fund and its utilization over the period of study are analyzed and results are presented in Table 3.6.
TABLE 3.6 VOCATIONAL TRAINING CONDUCTED BY TNWDC NAGAPATTINAM Amount allotted and spent Training details Year/ for training (Rs. in lakhs) Training No. of No. of Amount Amount No. of Training % SHGs % % allotted % spent % Beneficiary conducted Attended 2001 - 02 150 - 125 - 786 - 6.52 - 6.52 - 2002 - 03 164 9 147 18 740 -6 7.24 11 7.23 11 2003 - 04 175 17 160 28 960 22 12.32 89 12.32 89 - 2004 - 05 190 27 138 10 690 6.17 -5 9.54 46 12 2005 - 06 185 23 175 40 870 11 10.14 56 10.13 55 2006 - 07 200 33 210 68 1250 59 26.11 300 26.07 300 2007 - 08 210 40 217 74 1300 65 27.12 315 27.12 316 2008 - 09 175 17 220 76 1320 68 28.14 332 28.45 336 - - 2009 - 10 195 115 -8 700 16.58 154 16.58 154 30 11 2010 - 11 215 43 225 80 1350 72 28.17 332 28.17 332 2011 - 12 220 47 227 82 1362 73 30.12 362 30.12 367 2014 - 15 312 - 289 - 1337 - 15.00 - 19.04 - Mean 189.00 178.09 1029.82 18.06 18.39 SD 21.89 43.12 285.77 9.93 9.60 CV 11.58 24.21 27.75 54.98 52.22 ACGR 4.24 11.3 11.78 29.65 26.63 LGR 2.93 4.56 5.50 13.86 13.31 CGR 3.03 4.5 5.51 17.77 16.87 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year. SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
The Table 3.6 shows that the number of vocational training conducted by the
TNWDC in the sample district gradually increased from 150 in 2001-02 to 220 in
2011-12 and thereby registered 47 percent growth. The growth rate of training
programme in the study area deserves appreciation and encouragement. The Table 3.6
clearly shows that the number of SHGs participated in vocational training gradually increased from 125 groups with 786 member beneficiaries in 2001-02 to 227 groups with 1362 SHGs member beneficiaries in 2011-12 and thereby registered 82 percent growth in respect of SHGs and 73 percent in respect of member beneficiaries. Hence, from the above analysis it is observed that the number of SHGs and member participation in training has surged forward over the period of study.
It is observed from the Table that the amount allocated for vocational training by TNWDC in Nagapattinam district gradually increased from Rs.6.52 lakhs in 2001-
02 to Rs.30.12 lakhs in 2011-12 and thereby registered 362 percent increase. Similarly amount spent on such training also increased by 367 percent compared as to the base year. In brief, from the above analysis, it is observed that TNWDC in Nagapattinam district has increased its fund allocation and its use for vocational training. Further it has been ascertained that the average participation in the vocational training was 178 out of 1164 average SHGs formed in the sample districts. It is covered only one- seventh of the average SHGs. Hence, majority of the SHGs are not getting vocational training in the sample district. Moreover the average beneficiaries of member of SHGs in the vocational training was 1030 out of 17697 average member enrolled in the sample district. Hence all the members of SHGs are not offered to get the same caliber and expertise through vocational training given by TNWDC in the sample district.
It is suggested that the income generation is an integral part of women SHGs under the scheme of vocational training given to all the members of SHGs. For that purpose, TNWDC and NGOs will have to conduct large number of short term vocational training programmes at every block. The practical oriented training programme must be conducted with professional expert from business and industrial site. State Government has to arrange for marketing of products of SHGs, for which there is a need to conduct exhibition – cum – sale in educational institutions such as school and colleges.
The main objective of vocational training is to improve the sources of livelihood of rural folk. The below poverty line families in the district would be identified and they would be helped to come out of poverty in five to seven years. Strong and sustainable livelihood sources would be created and the families would be helped to have access in various services including financial assistance, to enable them to get higher income. Continuous skill development programmes would improve their skills.
Various linkages would be created and livelihood opportunities would provide to them.
EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGE UNDER SGSY REVOLVING FUND
ASSISTANCE
Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY) which was in operation in the country from 1st April 1999 by merging six rural development programmes (viz.,
Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP), Development of Women and
Children Rural Areas (DWCRA), Training of Rural Youth for Self Employment
(TRYSEM), Supply of Improved Toolkits for Rural Artisans (SITRA), Million wells
Scheme (MWS) and Ganga Kalyan Yojana (GKY). The beneficiaries of SGSY are known as Swarojgaries. SGSY lays emphasis on the group approach under which rural poor are organized into Self Help Groups. However, individually Swarojgari may also be assisted, but focus is on group approach. SGSY has been conceived as a holistic program of self-employment. It covers all aspects of self employment of the rural poor namely, organization of the poor into SHGs and their capacity building, training, selection of key activities and planning of activity clusters, infrastructure buildup, technology and marketing support. A major focus of SGSY is the emphasis on the social mobilization of the poor. The program focuses on organization of the poor at the grassroots level through a process of social mobilization for poverty eradication. Social mobilization enables the poor to build their own self-help groups which they fully and directly participate and take decisions on all issues that will help them in coming above the poverty line. In case of minor irrigation schemes and in case of disabled persons, the number may be a minimum of five. According to guidelines, 50% of self-help groups in each block should be exclusively of women.
Financial assistance under the scheme of SGSY to individual Swarojgaris or self-help groups in the form of subsidy by the Government and credit by the banks.
Credit is the critical component of SGSY. Subsidy being a minor and enabling element. Accordingly, SGSY envisages greater involvement of the banks. SGSY also seeks to promote multiple credits rather than one time credit “Injection” subsidy under the SGSY to individuals is uniform at 30% of the project cost subject to a maximum of
Rs.7,500. In respect of scheduled casts and scheduled tribes, the subsidy is 50% of the project costs, subject to a maximum of Rs.10, 000. For groups of Swarojgaris, the subsidy is 50% of the cost of the project, subject to a ceiling of Rs.1.25 lakhs as back end subsidy. There is no monetary limit on subsidy for irrigation projects. SGSY is being implemented by the District Rural Development Agencies with the active involvement of Panchayat Raj Institutions (local self Government), the banks, the line
Departments and the Non-Government organizations. The scheme is financed on 75:25 cost sharing basis between the Central and the States.
SGSY REVOLVING FUND
Self-help groups are given project for income generation activities.
Initially members of self help groups have to save regularly and saving fund is used among the members as internal lending. Performance of self-help groups is assessed by
Government officials and bankers after 6 months and they awarded First Rating to
SHG. A sum of Rs.25,000 is given to first rating SHGs as Revolving Fund which includes loan from Bank and subsidy from Government. The income generation activities are carried out by SHGs out of this fund.
The external credit linkage under SGSY Revolving Fund assistance to women SHGs in Nagapattinam district is analysed in terms of number of SHGs and their beneficiaries, total amount of loan and subsidy during the study period are presented in Table 3.7.
TABLE 3.7 EXTERNAL CREDET LINKAGES UNDER SGSY REVOLVING FUND ASSISTANCE
No. of No. of SGSY REVOLVING FUND SHGs beneficiaries (Rupees in lakhs) Year Loan Subsidy Total No. % No. % % % % Rs. Rs. Rs. 2001 - 02 404 - 7720 - 60.6 - 40.4 - 101.00 - 2002 - 03 504 25 9172 19 75.6 25 50.4 25 126.00 49.26 2003 - 04 843 109 15174 97 126.45 109 84.3 109 210.75 84.42 2004 - 05 424 5 7682 -0.5 63.6 5 42.4 495 106.00 -79.75 2005 - 06 804 99 14372 86 120.6 99 80.4 99 201.00 416.24 2006 - 07 616 52 11152 44 154 154 61.6 52 215.60 -16.28 2007 - 08 830 105 14840 92 415 585 83 105 498.00 174.35 2008 - 09 1600 296 28735 272 800 1220 160 296 960.00 57.72 2009 - 10 2150 432 38696 401 107.5 77 215 432 322.50 -77.59 2010 - 11 2100 420 37382 384 916 1412 210 420 1126.00 696.01 2011 - 12 2250 457 40312 422 1125.37 1757 225 457 1350.37 -26.88 2014 - 15 3211 - 56638 - 2319 - 321.13 - 2752.73 - Mean 1138.64 20476.09 360.43 113.86 474.29 SD 735.94 13106.16 395.98 73.59 453.77 CV 64.63 64.01 109.86 64.63 95.67 ACGR 27.53 26.54 111.03 27.53 127.75 LGR 17.5 17.27 26.22 17.50 24.52 CGR 19.71 19.15 31.83 19.71 30.56 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year, SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate The number of women SHGs received revolving fund under the scheme in
Nagapattinam district was gradually increased to 2250 groups in 2011-12 from 404
groups in 2001-02 and thereby registered 457 percent increase, whereas the number of
beneficiaries also increased to 422 percent from 19 percent. It could be found out that
the members actively participated in their respective groups to fulfil all legal formalities
for getting revolving fund under the scheme SGSY in Nagapattinam district.
The Table 3.7 also indicates that the total amount of loan and subsidy under the scheme increased to Rs.1350.37 lakhs in 2011-12 from Rs.101 lakhs in 2001-02 over the period of study and thereby registered 1148 percent growth. Hence, from the above results, it can be ascertained that the training support from TNWDC, the proper guidance from registered NGOs and also the higher level of members’ savings are criteria for getting the loan from bank under the scheme of SGSY revolving fund in
Nagapattinam district.
It has been found that the average number of women SHGs get loan under the scheme of SGSY revolving fund was 1139 groups, out of 1164 average number of
SHGs formed in Nagapattinam district during the study period. It indicates that a large number of SHGs are eligible to get the scheme loan in the districts. It is clear from the analysis that the most of the SHGs showed better performance and got first rating in order to avail SGSY RF. The average annual growth rate of the total amount of loan and subsidy under the scheme was 127.75 percent, which is higher than the AAGR of the number of SHGs (27.53%) and its member beneficiaries (26.54%), thus a rapid growth is observed in respect of amount of loan. It is concluded that the implementation of the scheme of SGSY RF loan by the TNWDC, NGOs and banks is highly satisfied in Nagapattinam district.
The loan amount has been kept at fixed sum along with repayment schedules and monthly instalment is of convenience and is within the capacity of members. Since banks are enthused by the good repayment behaviour of SHGs, more funds are pumped by the banking sector. Many of the groups are beyond the stage of thrift and credit.
These are given an opportunity to take up income generating activities.
EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGE UNDER SGSY FOR ECONOMIC
ACTIVITES
The external credit linkage under SGSY economic activities to women
SHGs in Nagapattinam district in terms of number of SHGs and their member
beneficiaries, total amount of loan and subsidy during the study period has been
analysed and results are presented in Table 3.8
TABLE 3.8 EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGES UNDER SGSY ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SGSY Economic Activities Financial No. of No. of Assistance SHGs beneficiaries Year (Rupees in lakhs ) Loan Subsidy Total No. % No. % % % % Rs. Rs. Rs. 2001 - 02 95 - 1620 - 267.18 - 89.06 - 356.24 - 2002 - 03 11 -88 196 -88 19.02 -93 6.34 -93 25.36 -93 2003 - 04 226 138 4068 151 202.4 -24 202.4 127 404.80 14 2004 - 05 153 61 2548 57 540.99 102 180.33 102 721.32 102 2005 - 06 43 -55 733 -55 145.35 -46 48.45 -46 193.80 -46 2006 - 07 80 -16 1360 -16 240 -10 80 -10 320.00 -10 2007 - 08 136 43 2314 43 408 53 136 53 544.00 53 2008 - 09 128 35 2276 41 384 44 128 44 512.00 44 2009 - 10 100 5 1892 16 300 12 100 12 400.00 12 2010 - 11 177 86 3286 103 453.9 70 151.3 70 605.20 70 2011 - 12 182 92 3376 108 466.71 75 155.57 75 622.28 75 2014 - 15 493 - 9291 - 638 - 400.04 - 1037.79 - Mean 121.00 2151.73 311.60 116.13 427.73 SD 63.37 1160.65 156.16 58.16 202.68 CV 52.37 53.94 50.12 50.08 47.39 ACGR 197.00 199.26 112.69 307.7 156.99 LGR 5.74 6.61 8.69 4.6 7.58 CGR 12.25 13.14 16.72 13.27 15.44 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No.= Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
The number of women SHGs received economic activities loan under the scheme in Nagapattinam district increased to 182 groups in 2011-12 from 95 groups in
2001-02 and there by registered 92 percent growth. Similarly the number of beneficiaries increased to 108 percent in 2011-12 but showed low number of SHGs and beneficiaries during the study periods 2002-03, 2005-06 and 2006-07. It indicates the low level of performance among the SHGs for getting EA loan in the sample district, particularly for achieving the formalities of SHG second rating. The table 3.8 also indicates that the total amount of loan and subsidy under the scheme of SGSY economic activities increased from Rs.356.24 lakhs to Rs.622.28 lakhs and thereby registered 75 percent growth over the period of study. Hence, from the result of the above analysis, that a lesser number of women SHGs, consisting with large number of members actively performed to get huge amount of bank loan under the scheme of
SGSY economic activities. With the help of this loan they are in a position to undertake more than twenty five economic activities in Nagapattinam district.
The study has found that the average number of SHGs received loan from
SGSY EA is 121, which is very low when compared to average number of SHGs formation in Nagapattinam district. It covered only one-tenth of the total number of
SHGs, rest of the SHGs have not availed EA loan under the scheme in the
Nagapattinam district, because they have not achieved the desired performance for second rating by the TNWDC, NGOs and banks. Hence, the study suggested that the rating authorities will have to support and guide them, to enrich them for getting EA loan and also increase the size of amount of the loan for each group above
Rs.10,00,000. It may be noted that each of the SHGs members will have to borrow rupees one lakh from the respective SHG. The higher amount of loans will help to develop economic activities of the SHGs, thus improving the socio-economic condition of their members.
EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGE UNDER TAHDCO REVOLVING FUND
ASSISTANCE
TAHDCO schemes have been decentralized and formulated at the district level for economic development of scheduled caste and scheduled tribes under the dynamic leadership of District Collectors, in the form of District Action plans in accordance with the local needs, local potential and availability of resources. The amount for this plan is allocated to the districts based on SC/ST population, so as to ensure that there is no unbalance and there is rational distribution of selection of beneficiaries throughout the
State.
REVOLVING FUND ASSISTANCE TO SHGs
Revolving fund assistance is provided to SC/ST members of SHGs, if it has been recognized by TNWDC under Mahalir Thittam. Out of the total assistance of
Rs.25,000 to each group, Rs.10,000 is being provided as subsidy and the remaining
Rs.15,000 as loan through bank.
ELIGIBILITY FOR AVAILING THIS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
The members of the self help groups shall belong to scheduled caste. The annual family income of the SHG members should not exceed Rs.1 lakh each. The
SHGs should have qualified in the first rating for getting revolving fund. The SHG members and their family members should not have availed any subsidy so far. The external credit linkage under TAHDCO revolving fund financial assistance to women SHGs in Nagapattinam district in terms of number of SHGs, number of
beneficiaries and total amount of loan and subsidy during the study period has been
analyzed and results are presented in Table 3.9.
TABLE 3.9 EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGES UNDER TAHDCO REVOLVING FUND ASSISTANCE
No. of No. of TAHDCO REVOLVING FUND SHGs beneficiaries ( Rupees in lakhs ) Year Loan Subsidy Total No. % No. % % % % Rs. Rs. Rs. 2001 - 02 36 - 654 - 5.4 - 3.6 - 9.00 - 2002 - 03 47 31 826 26 7.05 31 4.7 31 11.75 31 2003 - 04 42 17 814 24 6.3 17 4.2 17 10.50 17 2004 - 05 63 75 1171 79 9.45 75 6.3 75 15.75 75 2005 - 06 39 8 764 17 5.85 8.3 3.9 8 9.75 8 2006 - 07 70 94 1192 82 10.5 94 7 94 17.50 94 2007 - 08 54 50 818 25 8.1 50 5.4 50 13.50 50 2008 - 09 37 31 567 -13 11.1 106 3.7 3 14.80 64 2009 - 10 43 19 742 13 12.9 139 4.3 19 17.20 91 2010 - 11 65 81 1045 60 32.5 502 6.5 81 39.00 333 2011 - 12 82 128 1184 81 41 659 8.2 128 49.20 447 2014 - 15 203 - 3191 - 121.41 - 20.35 - 141.75 - Mean 52.55 888.82 13.65 5.25 18.90 SD 15.40 222.14 11.81 1.54 12.99 CV 29.30 24.99 86.54 29.30 68.69 ACGR 15.05 11.29 31.98 15.05 26.72 LGR 4.64 2.21 20.32 4.64 15.97 CGR 4.41 2.07 18.90 4.41 14.58 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year. SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
The number of women SHGs received revolving fund loan under the scheme
in Nagapattinam district was increased to 82 groups in 2011-12 from 36 groups in
2001-02 and thereby registered 128 percent increase. Similarly the number of
beneficiaries has also shown an upward trend from 654 members in 2001-02 to 1184 members in 2011-12 and recorded an increase of 81 percent over the period. The trend of number of SHGs and member beneficiaries for getting revolving fund loan under the scheme in Nagapattinam district is satisfied. It is heartening to note that the beneficiaries and SHGs have surged forward over the period of study. The disbursement of loan and subsidy under the scheme were increased to Rs.49.20 lakhs in
2011-12 from Rs.9 lakhs in 2001-02 and thereby registered 447 percent of increase. It has been found that the average number of SHGs received loans from TAHDCO revolving fund is 53 groups which is very low while compared to average number of
SHGs in Nagapattinam district.
The amount of Revolving Fund loan increased to Rs.60,000 from Rs.15,000 over the period of study. The amount is inadequate for members to invest in economic activities. So it is recommended that the State Government has to take steps to increase the amount of loan to Rs.2 lakhs from Rs.60, 000. It may be noted that the sufficient flow of credit to the SHGs is a good sign because these loans play a vital role in promoting economic activities of SHGs and thus improving the socio-economic condition of their members.
EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGE UNDER TAHDCO FOR
ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
TAHDCO has facilitated self help groups through financial assistance for employment ventures and to empower themselves by taking up a wide variety of economic activities such as purchase of land for cultivation, coir making, mat weaving, agro processing units, restaurants, provisions stores, transport activities, mini bus, share autos, power loom, leather goods, brick kilns, tea cultivation, flowers, vegetables cultivation, floriculture etc. To enable the SC and ST women members of SHGs to undertake such self employment ventures, TAHDCO offered “Entrepreneurship
Development Programmes Training for seven days to SC/ST women members of SHGs in association with TNWDC. Besides, suitable vocational trainings are also arranged for them depending on the choice of their economic activities.
TAHDCO ECONOMIC ACTIVITES ASSISTANCE
For any income generation project of economic activity costing from Rs.6,
000 to Rs.7.5 lakhs, 50% of the project cost is provided as subsidy subject to a maximum of Rs.2.5 lakhs per self help group. Term loan from banks are arranged for the remaining cost of the project. The same eligibility condition for availing RF loan is applicable to the loan for economic activities. The external credit linkage under
TAHDCO economic activities to women SHGs in Nagapattinam district in terms of number of SHGs, their member beneficiaries and total amount of loan and subsidy during the study period has been analyzed and results are presented in Table 3.10.
TABLE 3.10 EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGES UNDER TAHDCO ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES ASSISTANCE
No. of No. of SHGs beneficiaries TAHDCO Economic Activities Year (Rupees in lakhs) Loan Subsidy Total No. % No. % % % % Rs. Rs. Rs. 2001 - 02 16 - 196 - 40 - 40 - 80.00 - 2002 - 03 15 -16 187 -15 37.5 -6 37.5 -6 75.00 -6 2003 - 04 18 13 226 15 45.0 13 45.0 13 90.00 13 2004 - 05 17 6 214 9 42.5 6 42.5 6 85.00 6 2005 - 06 20 25 247 26 49.5 24 49.5 24 99.00 24 2006 - 07 23 44 786 301 57.0 43 57.0 43 14.00 43 2007 - 08 14 -13 178 -9 35.5 -11 35.5 -11 71.00 -11 2008 - 09 18 13 226 15 44.5 11 44.5 11 89.00 11 2009 - 10 22 38 274 40 56.0 40 56.0 40 112.00 40 2010 - 11 26 63 322 64 64.5 61 64.5 61 129.00 61 2011 - 12 30 88 372 90 74.0 85 74.0 85 148.00 85 2014 - 15 62 - 494 - 149.43 - 149.43 - 298.56 - Mean 19.91 293.45 49.64 49.64 99.27 SD 4.93 173.69 12.03 12.03 24.07 CV 24.76 59.19 24.24 24.24 24.24 ACGR 8.61 24.85 8.32 8.32 8.32 LGR 5.57 4.71 5.51 5.51 5.51 CGR 5.32 5.35 5.28 5.28 5.28 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year, SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate
The number of women SHGs received economical activities loan under the
scheme in Nagapattinam district was increased from 16 groups in 2001-02 to 30 groups
in 2011-12 and thereby registered 88 percent increase, whereas the number of
beneficiaries also increased from 196 members to 372 members and registering an
increase of 90 percent over the period. It is observed from the above analysis that the beneficiaries and SHGs who have availed assistance under the scheme are satisfactory.
It has been found that the average number of SHGs received loan under the scheme of
TAHDCO economic activities was 20. It indicates that the entire groups not have the awareness about the TAHDCO Economic Activities loan.
It is suggested that the TNWDC and NGOs should motivate the SC/ST members through conducting extra ordinary meeting at every Panchayat level, to expose the importance of the EA loan and also guide them to achieve the position regarding to get
SHGs second rating. The TNWDC and NGOs with the help of DIC are suggested suitable economic activities for women SHGs in each and every block. It will be enabling them to improve the economic conditions.
EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGE UNDER NABARD DIRECT
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
NABARD was established as an Apex institution, accredited with all matters concerning policy, planning and operation in the field of credit for agriculture and other economic activities in rural India, with a vision to facilitate sustained access to financial services for the unreached poor in rural areas through various micro finance innovations in a cost effective and sustained manner. NABARD has been working as a catalyst in promoting and linking more SHGs to the banking system. The pioneering efforts at this direction were made by NABARD. In 1991-92 a pilot project for linking about 500 SHGs with banks was launched by NABARD in consultation with the RBI.
It is considered as a landmark development in banking for the poor. On the recommendation of the NABARD, the Reserve Bank of India advised that the banks financing of SHGs would be reckoned as part of their lending to weaker sections. As a follow up of the recommendations of the NABARD working group, the RBI took some measures in 1996 to give a thrust to micro finance based lending. Banks were advised to consider lending to the SHGs as part of their mainstream credit operations to identify branches having potential for linkage with SHGs and provide necessary support for services to such branches. Further it was decided that NABARD would continue to provide refinance to banks under the linkage project at the rates stipulated from time to time.
The NABARD task force, for instance, identifies, three ways of banking with the poor (a) By means of banking with the poor, (b) by means of conventional bank lending, linking SHGs with bank lending and (c) banks lending to micro finance institutions for lending to groups or individuals. The task force goes on to say that the second and third methods are characterized as low transactions cost and high repayment
(NABARD 2000). As pointed out earlier, micro credit means “small loans” and the scale of smallness varies many a time. The NABARD task force estimated the credit requirements per family as Rs.6,000 in rural areas and Rs.9,000 in urban areas, but recommended that average loan given to members of SHGs should be around
Rs.1,000(NABARD). The external credit linkage under NABARD direct financial assistance to women SHGs in Nagapattinam district in terms of number of SHGs, number of beneficiaries and total amount of loan during the study period has been analyzed and results are presented in Table 3.11.
TABLE 3.11 EXTERNAL CREDIT LINKAGE UNDER NABARD DIRECT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Loan No. of SHGs No. of beneficiaries Year No. % No. % (Rs. in lakhs) % 2001 - 02 195 - 3126 - 176.11 - 2002 - 03 168 -13.85 2627 -15.96 132.27 -24.89 2003 - 04 157 -6.55 2465 -6.17 118.12 -10.70 2004 - 05 222 41.40 3436 39.39 149.3 26.40 2005 - 06 186 -16.22 2892 -15.83 86.22 -42.25 2006 - 07 242 30.11 3590 24.14 275.14 219.11 2007 - 08 216 -10.74 3431 -4.43 316.37 14.99 2008 - 09 237 9.72 3645 6.24 345.13 9.09 2009 - 10 362 52.74 5702 56.43 412.18 19.43 2010 - 11 314 -13.26 4910 -13.89 367.72 -10.79 2011 - 12 376 19.75 5684 15.76 383.12 4.19 2014 - 15 484 - 6144 - 6804.37 - Mean 243.18 9.31 3773.45 8.57 251.06 20.46 SD 75.28 25.40 1147.39 25.01 120.68 72.92 CV 30.96 272.86 30.41 291.87 48.07 356.47 AAGR 9.31 8.57 20.46 LGR 8.09 7.85 12.6 CGR 8.1 7.83 14.3 Source: Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Nagapattinam
No. = Number, % represents the percentage of increase or decrease over the base year, SD = Standard Deviation, CV = Coefficient of variation, AAGR = Average Annual Growth rate, LGR = Linear Growth rate, CGR = Compound Growth Rate.
The number of women SHGs received loan from NABARD direct financial
assistance in Nagapattinam district was increased from 195 groups in 2001-02 to 376
groups in 2011-12 and thereby registered 93% growth whereas the number of
beneficiaries also increased to 5684 members in 2011-12 from 3126 members in 2001-
02 and an increase of 82 percent was observed over the period of study. The Table 3.11 also indicates that the total amount of loan received by women SHGs and their members under the scheme of NABARD direct financial assistance increased to
Rs.383.12 lakhs in 2011-12 from Rs.176.11 lakhs in 2001-02 and thereby registered
118 percent growth. During 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2005-06, the growth rate in respect of amount of loan was decreased. It indicates the lack of co-ordination and help from
TNWDC and NGOs to women SHGs and members for availing the loan under the scheme.
It has been found that the average number of SHGs received loan under the scheme was 243 groups out of 1164 SHGs formed in the district. It covered only 21 percent of the SHGs formation and rest of them have not availed bank loan under the scheme. The external credit linkage under NABARD direct financial assistance is something quite creditable because, the members of women SHGs in Nagapattinam district belong to poor families and in the absence of their membership of the SHGs, they could not able to get any loans from NABARD. Now these members can utilize such credit for starting new economic activities and also to meet their consumption and social needs. Hence, large number of women SHGs will have to avail such loan from bank with the help of TNWDC and NGOs.
The growth of SHGs and Bank linkage credit programmes in the sample district have been studied in terms of formation of SHGs, membership in SHGs, savings pooled, training programmers to SHGs, entrepreneurial training to SHGs members, credit linkage with bank and revolving fund assistance to SHGs. The study reveals the following facts:
Low number of SHGs formed in the study area.
More enrolment of members in SHGs was observed. Meagre saving collected from members.
Low level of participation of SHGs members in the training programme
conducted by TNWDC.
Rapid growth of RF loan provided to SHGs.
Slow growth was observed in the case of EA, TADHCO and NABARD
financial accommodation made available to SHGs are inadequate.
CHAPTER - IV
PERFORMANCE OF SAMPLE WOMEN SHGs
CHAPTER - IV
PERFORMANCE OF SAMPLE WOMEN SHGs
SHGs in Nagapattinam District play a predominant role in mobilizing and managing thrift activities, appraising the credit needs, enforcing financial disciplines, maintaining credit linkages with banks and effectively undertaking income generating activities. In this sample district a majority of SHGs have launched breakfast centers, brick kilns, and handicraft units, tailoring and rearing of fish and goat. Their monthly turnover is Rs.15,000 and profit is Rs.1,500 to 3,000. The sources said vocational training was being given to SHGs members to help them to develop their skills41. This chapter is aiming to assess the performance of sample SHGs in eleven blocks of
Nagapattinam district. The assessment is made in terms of their existence, size of membership, meeting attendance, savings, training, maintenance of accounts,
Borrowing and lending.
YEAR OF EXPERIENCE
The period of existence of SHGs is considered to be an important factor for the performance. The experience gained during the period of existence, the SHG is exposed to various schemes, rapport with financing institution, mutual knowledge of members, inbuilt mechanism of peer monitoring leading to better loan recoveries and productive credit utilization. The period of existence of sample SHGs is tabulated herewith.
41 Rural Development in India – Page 98
TABLE 4.1.1
AGE OF THE SAMPLE SHGs
Area Total Year of Rural Urban experience F % F % F %
Up to 2 years 52 13.76 10 2.65 62 16.40
2 to 4 years 105 27.78 30 7.94 135 35.71
4 to 6 years 78 20.63 14 3.70 92 24.34
Above 6 Years 71 18.78 18 4.76 89 23.54
Total 306 80.95 72 19.05 378 100
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.1.1 depicts the existence of SHGs. It is clear that 306 SHGs are from rural areas and 72 SHGs are from urban centers. In regard to existence of groups in terms of period, it is observed that 62 SHGs are functioning for a period up to 2 years, of which
52 are from rural and 10 from urban. On the other hand, 89 SHGs are in existence for a period more than 6 years, 71 and 18 are from rural and urban respectively. It has been ascertained from the above analysis that nearly one-fourth of the SHGs have more than half a decade existence. Further more than one-third of the SHGs have two to four years of existence. While analyzing the formation and existence of SHGs, it is observed that the formation of SHGs in urban area is very slow and which are below ten percent in all categories. Further it is heartening to note that the formation and existence of SHGs are more in members as the rural women have more interest in forming and taking part in the activities of their groups and thereby they indent to develop economically and socially. SIZE OF SHGs
SHGs are formed under the principle of Self-Help to promote individuals through
collective activities in areas of augmenting income gaining easier access to credit and
increasing their bargaining power. SHGs consisting of 10-20 members in which they
participate fully and take decisions on all issues concerning poverty eradication.
Size of SHG envisages better Understanding and mutual knowledge of members. The
details relating to size of sample SHGs are given in the table 4.1.2
TABLE 4.1.2 SIZES OF SAMPLE SHGs
Area Total Total number of members Rural Urban
F % F % F %
Up to 15 members 199 52.65 46 12.17 245 64.81
16 to 17 members 57 15.08 17 4.50 74 19.58
18 to 19 members 38 10.05 9 2.38 47 12.43
20 members 12 3.17 - - 12 3.17
Total 306 80.95 72 19.05 378 100
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
The Table 4.1.2 reveals the area wise number of SHGs and members distribution in the study area. It is obvious to note that out of 378 sample SHGs, nearly one- fifth consisting of 16 to 17 members, of which 57 from rural and 17 from urban, whereas the members’ strength laid between 18 and 19 for 47 SHGs consisting of 38 and 9 from rural and urban respectively. Further, 199 rural SHGs and 46 urban SHGs are consisting of less than 15 members.
It has been ascertained from the above analysis that more than three-fifth of them having membership size up to 15 members. Further, nearly 3 percent of them having 20 members in their groups. It is probed that an optimum number of members needed for every SHGs to manage themselves is up to 15. It is considered as compact size of
SHGs. A constant growth in saving satisfy internal lending and external borrowing, group cohesiveness, understanding the personal and social problems and decision making are achieved by SHGs through the optimum size of membership in
Nagapattinam district.
MEETING OF SHGs
SHG formed, developed and strengthened to evolve into self-managed unit.
Harmony among the members, determining repayment schedule, ensuring prompt repayment, supervising co-operative activities are important aspects to be developed in the meeting of members. The particulars pertaining to the frequency of meeting is projected in the Table 4.1.3.
TABLE 4.3
MEETING OF SAMPLE SHGs
Area Total Frequency Rural Urban interval F % F % F %
Weekly 143 37.83 36 9.52 179 47.35
15 days once 77 20.37 23 6.08 100 26.46
Monthly 75 19.84 10 2.65 85 22.49
occasionally 11 2.91 3 0.79 14 3.70
Total 306 80.95 72 19.05 378 100
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
The Table 4.1.3 indicates the frequency of meeting conducted by the sample
SHGs in Nagapattinam district. Out of 378 SHGs, 100 are conducting their meeting at 15 days interval of which more than three-fourth of them rural area and nearly one- fourth of them are urban area whereas 85 SHGs convened their meeting at monthly once, in which 75 and 10 SHGs are from rural and urban respectively.
It is ascertained from the above analysis, majority of the sample SHGs (i.e.,
47.35%) have weekly meeting. It indicates the members active participation in their respective groups for their development. On the other hand, 14 of them hold their meeting occasionally. It leads to poor performance of the group.
SHG is functioning with the members through meeting. Ordinarily the matters handled in the meeting are members saving collection, internal and external lending and its recovery, discussion among the members for future development. It is suggested that weekly meeting is considered ideal for discharging their routine works and plan for future development.
ATTENDANCE IN THE MEETING
SHG provides the benefits of collective learning, democratic base of platform for discussion and co-operation. The working of SHG is mainly depending on the co- operation of members. The principle observed in SHG is ‘contribute according to the ability and extract according to the need’. Thus the participation of each member in the meeting is utmost important. The attendance of members in the sample SHGs is revealed in Table 4.1.4
TABLE 4.1.4
ATTENDANCES IN THE SHGs MEETING
Area Attendance in Total SHGs Rural Urban Meeting (%) F % F % F %
Up to 50 43 11.38 7 1.85 50 13.23
51 to 75 55 14.55 16 4.23 71 18.78
76 to 90 61 16.14 13 3.44 74 19.58
Above 90 147 38.89 36 9.52 183 48.41
Total 306 80.95 72 19.05 378 100
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
The Table 4.1.4 indicates that the members participation in SHGs meeting. Out of 378 sample SHGs, 71 of them registered their members’ attendance between 51 to
75 percent, of which 55 and 16 are from rural and urban respectively. Whereas 74 of them recorded the attendance percentage between 76 to 90. It is ascertained that nearly one-half of the sample SHGs maintained their attendance progress above 90 percent.
Further, more than one-third of them maintained between 51 to 90 percent. It clearly shows the average level of members participation in SHGs meeting in the study area.
Even though weekly meeting is advisable to SHGs, all the members attendance is must for SHGs, performing well and taking decision for members’ development.
It is suggested that the SHGs will have to conduct their meeting at evening time without affecting the working hours. The meeting agenda will be scheduled by animator and representative for conducting meeting at short duration. Moreover, each and every member should be assigned a role in meeting such as training, attendance register maintenance, minutes writing, saving fund collection, loan recovery etc.
HABIT OF SAVING
Contributing a fixed sum on weekly, fortnightly and monthly basis as savings is one of the major activates of SHG. Further, it provides easy access to credit. The group decides the quantum and periodicity of savings of members. The Table here under indicates the periodicity of savings in Table 4.1.5
TABLE 4.1.5 HABIT OF SAVINGS
Area Total Frequency of Rural Urban the savings F % F % F %
Weekly 14 3.70 2 0.53 16 4.23
15 days once 44 11.64 11 2.91 55 14.55
Monthly 248 65.61 59 15.61 307 81.22
Total 306 80.95 72 19.05 378 100
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
The Table 4.1.5 shows the savings habit among the sample SHGs in the study area. Out of 378 SHGs, 16 of them having weekly saving habit, of which 14 and 2 are from rural and urban respectively. On the other hand, 44 rural SHGs and 11 urban
SHGs are mobilized their members saving fifteen days once. It is ascertained that majority of the SHGs (i.e., four-fifth) pooled their saving once in a month. It leads to low amount of internal fund among the sample SHGs. The members saving habit is a significant factor for determining the size of saving and internal lending among the members. Further, the savings of the group is the borrowing power, which determines the external borrowing from bank. It is suggested that in order to increase the size of internal fund, the frequency of saving may be shifted to weekly. The weekly saving amount may be decided by the members based on their earning capacity.
AMOUNT OF SAVINGS
The members of SHGs have to save regularly. The amount may be small, but savings have to be a regular and continuous habit for all the members. Savings first- credit latter shall be the motto of SHG members. Members take a step towards self dependence when they start small savings. They bear financial discipline through savings and internal lending. The quantum of savings deposited by members of sample
SHGs is indicated in Table 4.1.6
Table 4.1.6
AMOUNT OF SAVING (PER MEETING)
Area Total Amount of Rural Urban Savings in Rs. F % F % F %
Up to 50 66 17.46 15 3.97 81 21.43
51 to 100 92 24.34 19 5.03 111 29.37
Above 100 148 39.15 38 10.05 186 49.21
Total 306 80.95 72 19.05 378 100
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.1.6 shows the saving amount of members fixed by the sample SHGs in the study area. Generally, the amount ranges between Rs.50 to Rs.100 and above. Out of 378 sample SHGs respondents, 186 of them decided to save above 100 rupees, of
which 148 are rural and 38 are urban. On the other hand, 66 rural SHGs and 15 urban
SHGs are fixed the amount up to Rs.50. It has been ascertained from the above
analysis that 111 sample SHGs have the habit of saving Rs.51 to Rs.100. It leads to a
small and tiny size of internal fund. A huge amount of saving determines the size of
internal loan and external bank credit. It is suggested that in order to increase the size
of saving, the amount of saving from members must be members choice based, which
enable the members to deposit varied amount subject to a minimum amount fixed by
the groups.
TOTAL AMOUNT OF SAVING
SHGs are small in size, homogeneous economically, members have affinity,
formed voluntarily to save and contribute to a corpus fund to be disbursed as loan to
their members. The aggregate amount of savings collected by sample SHGs are
presented in Table 4.1.7
TABLE 4.1.7
TOTAL AMOUNT OF SAVING
Saving in 50,001 to 1,00,001 to More than Up to 50,000 Total 1,00,000 1,50,000 1,50,000 Rs. F % F % F % F % F Period
Up to 2 years 28 45.16 14 22.58 20 32.25 - - 62
2 to 4 years 10 7.4 63 46.66 46 34.07 16 11.85 135
4 to 6 years 5 5.4 23 25.00 61 66.30 3 3.26 92
Above 6 Years - - 10 11.23 43 48.31 36 40.44 89
Total 43 11.37 110 29.10 170 44.97 55 14.55 378
Source: primary data; F: Frequency Table 4.1.7 reveals the quantum of savings mobilized from members. All sample SHGs were in a position to collect savings from members. One hundred and ten sample SHGs have existed for a period more than six years. The quantum of savings pooled ranged between Rs.50,000 and more than Rs.1,50,000. Nearly half of the sample SHGs saving position exceeded Rs.1,50,000. One hundred and fifty three sample units have existed for a period up to six years and sixty four percent of them have the capacity to mobilize savings between Rs.1,00,000 and Rs.1,50,000 and three of them was able to collect more than one lakh fifty thousand as their savings. The above analysis made it clear that SHGs have inculcates the habit of thrift and saving among the rural poor. If this savings habit is practiced by them, constantly it will automatically strengthen their economic position. The saving position of SHGs determines the borrowing power and availability of financial assistance from external financial agencies.
TRAINING TO SHG MEMBER
Skill development is a significant component of SHGs. It envisages proper utilization of loan on the part of members. Training helps them to identify the lucrative the activities in which they invest. The details relating to training are presented in Table
4.1.8
TABLE 4.1.8 TRAINING TO SHG MEMBER
More than No. of Training/ One Two Three Nil Total Nature of Three
Training F % F % F % F % F % F
SHG 63 16.67 105 27.78 90 23.81 114 30.16 6 1.59 378
EDP 144 38.10 98 25.93 29 7.67 - - 107 28.31 378
Vocational 132 34.92 42 11.11 6 1.59 - - 198 52.38 378
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.1.8 shows the training given to SHG members. In the sample district,
three kinds of training viz., SHG training, EDP training and vocational training are
offered to SHG members. Each type of training involves four stages. Each stage of
training is conducted for a period of 3 days to seven days. It is clear from the above
table that three hundred and seventy two sample SHG members have availed SHG
training and nearly one-third of them have completed all the four training phases.
Under EDP and vocational training programmes, no SHG have completed four phases
of training. Further, more than half of the sample SHGs have undergone no vocational
training and one-third did not get EDP training.
It has been seen that the trainees have acquired the required skill to produce a
product which have demand in the market. The training provides an opportunity to
SHGs for venturing into a business or taking up manufacturing work. There are
examples in the sample district, post period of training enabled the SHGs to involve
themselves in coir making, dry fish processing, leaf weaving, candle making and brick
making. The cited works were undertaken by SHGs and thereby developed their
members economically. It is recommended that training should be provided to all SHGs in the district, for which training is to be conducted at Panchayat level and all groups have to be encouraged to undergo training.
PERFORMANCE OF ACCOUNT MAINTENANCE
The SHGs are required to keep books of accounts such as attendance register, minute’s book, savings ledger, loan ledger, general ledger, cash book and individual pass book. The books have to be kept and updated regularly. The primary responsibility of maintaining books of accounts vests with the Animator. The performance of sample SHGs in respect of maintenance of accounts is projected in
Table. 4.1.9.
TABLE 4.1.9
PERFORMANCE OF ACCOUNT MAINTENANCE
Performance of account maintained by the SHG Total
Block Very good Good Poor Very Poor F F % F % F % F %
Nagapattinam 6 16.67 22 61.11 2 5.56 6 16.67 36
Thirumarugal 3 14.29 8 38.10 4 19.05 6 28.57 21
Kilvelur 5 23.81 12 57.14 1 4.76 3 14.29 21
Keelaiyur 4 21.05 10 52.63 3 15.79 2 10.53 19
Thalainayar 3 12.50 16 66.67 - - 5 20.83 24
Vedharanyam 7 16.67 18 42.86 5 11.90 12 28.57 42
Mayiladuthurai 8 17.39 28 60.87 3 6.52 7 15.22 46
Sembanarkoil 8 15.38 27 51.92 6 11.54 11 21.15 52
Sirkali 6 12.24 27 55.10 5 10.20 11 22.45 49
Kuttalam 5 17.86 17 60.71 3 10.71 3 10.71 28
Kollidam 6 15.00 24 60.00 3 7.50 7 17.50 40
Total 61 16.14 209 55.29 35 9.26 73 19.31 378
Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.1.9 reveals maintenance of accounts in SHGs. Each and every transaction of SHG is to be recorded properly. True and fair view of the accounts added moral value to SHGs and members are encouraged to observe integrity. Proper maintenance of accounts is more important in SHGs. It is obvious from the table that more than two-third of sample SHGs have maintained their accounts in an excellent manner. Only 108 SHGs out of 378 have poor and inadequate maintenance of accounts.
It is encouraging to notice that more than two-third of sample SHGs have proper maintenance of accounts. TNWDC and NGOs have to take steps to provide training to all SHGs in the sample district to enlighten them in the field of accounts and ensured proper maintenance of account in all SHGs in the district.
PROBLEMS FACED BY SHGs
Rural women are poor, weak and lack resources to solve their problems. When
SHG is encouraged to help its members, it will be easier for them to encounter the difficulties. As members of a group, many problems creep into them. The problems faced by the sample SHGs are indicated in Table 4.1.10.
TABLE 4.1.10 PROBLEMS FACED BY THE SHGs
1 2 3 4 5 6 Total Problems F % F % F % F % F % F % F
Lack of unity among the 72 19.0 56 14.8 41 10.8 28 7.4 85 22.5 96 25.4 378 group members Delay in getting loan 148 39.2 82 21.7 26 6.9 33 8.7 78 20.6 11 2.9 378 from the Bank Lack of help from 69 18.3 77 20.4 91 24.1 57 15.1 42 11.1 42 11.1 378 the NGO Lack of help from the 61 16.1 55 14.6 88 23.3 97 25.7 45 11.9 32 8.5 378 Government agency Lack of technology 15 4.0 65 17.2 61 16.1 93 24.6 59 15.6 85 22.5 378 support Lack of marketing 13 3.4 43 11.4 71 18.8 70 18.5 69 18.3 112 29.6 378 support Source primary data; F: Frequency
Regarding the problem “Lack of unity among the group members” the analysis shows that twenty five percent of the respondents assigned rank six. Thirty two percent of the SHGs assigned rank one for the problem “Delay in getting loan from the Bank”. Regarding “Lack of help from the NGO”, twenty four percent of the
SHGs assigned rank three. Towards “Lack of help from the Government agency”, twenty five percent of the respondents assigned rank four, twenty four percent of the
SHGs’ assigned rank four for “Lack of technology support” and twenty nine percent of the SHGs’ assigned rank six for “Lack of marketing support”.
In order to identify the problem which is more influencing the SHGs towards attitude, the Friedman’s test analysis was used and the results were given in Table
4.1.10(a).
TABLE 4.1.10(a)
FRIEDMAN TEST
PROBLEMS FACED BY THE SAMPLE SHGs
Problems Mean SD Mean Rank
Lack of unity among the group members 3.76 1.90 3.76
Delay in getting loan from the Bank 2.59 1.67 2.59
Lack of help from the NGO 3.14 1.59 3.14
Lack of help from the Government agency 3.28 1.49 3.28
Lack of technology support 3.98 1.51 3.98
Lack of marketing support 4.26 1.50 4.26
Source: Computed Data
It could be noted from the above Table that among the six problems, “Delay in getting loan from the Bank” was ranked first. It is followed by the “Lack of help from the NGO”. “Lack of help from the Government agency” was ranked third.
DISBURSEMENT OF INTERNAL LOAN
The main aim of SHGs is to generate saving and lend it to needy members.
The owned fund of SHG comprised of savings collected from members in turn which will be made available to members as credit at concessional rate of interest. The details pertaining to savings and amount of loan to members are indicated in Table 4.2.1
TABLE 4.2.1 DISBURSEMENT OF INTERNAL LOAN Amount of Amount of loan extended to the members Total Saving in Up to Rs. 3,001 to Rs. 6,001 More than Rs. Rs.3,000 6,000 to 9,000 Rs.9,000 (per F meeting) F % F % F % F %
Up to 50 57 70.37 3 3.70 - - 21 25.93 81 51 to 100 43 38.74 44 39.64 - - 24 21.62 111 Above 100 57 30.65 62 33.33 11 5.91 56 30.11 186 Total 157 41.53 109 28.84 11 2.91 101 26.72 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.2.1 reveals the disbursement of loan to members from the saving collected from them. It is seen from the table that 81 member respondents contributed Rs. 50 as the savings in a meeting. On the other hand 186 member respondents have deposited above Rs. 100 each as savings in a meeting. It is seen from the analysis that SHG have inculcated the habit of Thrift and saving among the members. The member respondents are motivated to remit their savings into SHGs as they are eligible to avail credit facilities in time of need. The table further provides the disbursement of loan to member respondents out of their owned fund in the savings of members collected. It is quite interesting to note that 101 member respondents have availed loan amount more than Rs. 9,000, While each of them remitted Rs.50, Rs.75, and Rs.100 in their SHGs as their saving respectively. It is also observed that 157
SHGs have granted loan up to Rs.3,000, While their collection of savings ranged between Rs.50 and Rs.100. It has been found out from the above analysis that nearly one- third of SHG sanctioned only a negligible amount of loan (up to Rs.3,000) in a meeting. The practice of lower borrowing coupled with higher amount of saving is quiet encouraging and the SHGs and members are deserved to be appreciated.
In order to find the relationship between the Amount of Saving (per Meeting) and the Amount of loan extended to the members from savings in a meeting, a Chi- square test was used and result of the test is shown in the following Table 4.3.1a.
TABLE 4.2.1a ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SAVINGS AND LOANS Calculated Degrees ‘p’ Factor Chi-square of Remarks Value value freedom Amount of < Highly Saving 58.528 6 0.001 Significant (per Meeting) Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association found between the Amount of Saving (per Meeting) and the
Amount of loan extended to the members from savings in a meeting.
PERIOD OF LOAN
Usually rural women required small amount of loan for short period in order to meet their domestic expenses. The amount of credit granted for the specified period in regard to sample SHGs are given in Table 4.2.2
TABLE 4.2.2
PERIOD OF LOAN
Period of interval for the loan availed by the members Total Amount of loan 2 More then 3 1 month 3 months extended months months F F % F % F % F % Up to Rs.3,000 45 28.66 - - 54 34.39 58 36.94 157 Rs. 3,001 to 6,000 14 12.84 4 3.67 28 25.69 63 57.80 109 Rs. 6,001 to 9,000 7 63.64 - - - 4 36.36 11 More than 30 29.70 - - 26 25.74 45 44.55 101 Rs.9,000 Total 96 25.40 4 1.06 108 28.57 170 44.97 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.2.2 shows clearly the period of repayment of loan. Ordinarily SHGs allow short term credit facility to their members. The period ranged between one and six months. It is analysed from the table that nearly half of SHGs respondents have disbursed loan for a period between three and six months. Further analysis of the Table shows that nearly 1/3rd of SHG respondents have granted loan for a period of three months. The study proved that the women in the rural areas have credit requirement only for short period. To satisfy the credit requirements of village people many private credit agencies have come forward but they used to charge exorbitant rate of interest.
But SHG is a gift to the rural people to satisfy their financial needs at low rate of interest.
In order to find the relationship between the amount of loan extended to the members from their savings in a meeting and the Period of interval for the loan availed by the members, a Chi-square test was used and result of the test is shown in the following table 4.2.2a.
TABLE 4.2.2a ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AMOUNT OF LOAN AND PERIOD OF LOAN Calculated Degrees ‘p’ Factor Remarks Chi-square value of freedom Value Amount of loan Highly 36.39 9 < 0.001 extended Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association is found between the amount of loan extended to the members from their savings in a meeting and the Period of interval for the loan availed by the members.
RATE OF INTEREST
The credit is disbursed by SHGs to their members. The main source of granting internal loan is savings. The loan is given at concessional rate of interest which varies from two percent to three percent per month. It is a great help to members for meeting their consumption and domestic needs without going to village money lenders. Rate of interest charged by sample SHGs is given in Table 4.2.3
TABLE 4.2.3 RATE OF INTEREST
Rate of interest on internal loan (P.M.) Total Amount of loan 1% 2% 3% 4 % extended F F % F % F % F % Up to Rs.3,000 78 49.68 52 33.12 22 14.01 5 3.18 157 Rs. 3,001 to 6,000 65 59.63 12 11.01 11 10.09 21 19.27 109 Rs. 6,001 to 9,000 - - 11 100.00 - - - - 11 More then Rs.9,000 24 23.76 29 28.71 48 47.52 - - 101 Total 167 44.18 104 27.51 81 21.43 26 6.88 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
From Table 4.2.3, it is noticed that the rate of interest charged for loan varied from one percent to four percent. It is clear from the table that one hundred and sixty seven SHGs respondents charged interest for the loan at one percent. Whereas twenty six SHG – respondents disbursed loan to their members at three to five percent interest.
During the period of study, it is desired to compare the interest on loan charged by private money lenders. It has been ascertained that money lenders charged higher rate of interest varied from 4 percent to 6 percent. Hence, it is clear from the above analysis that the rate of interest charged by SHGs is lower than private money lenders interest.
The members of SHGs opined that they are satisfied on the rate of interest.
In order to find the relationship between the Amount of loan extended to the members from the savings in a meeting and the Rate of interest on internal loan, a
Chi-square test was used and result of the test is shown in the following Table 4.2.3a.
TABLE 4.2.3a ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AMOUNT OF LOAN AND RATE OF INTEREST Calculated Degrees ‘p’ Factor Remarks Chi-square value of freedom Value Amount of loan Highly 135.16 9 < 0.001 extended Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association found between the amount of loan extended to the members from savings in a meeting and the rate of interest on internal loan.
NUMBER OF INSTALMENT FOR REPAYMENT OF LOAN
Repayment culture and credit recycling are vital for the free flow of credit. The appreciable qualities of SHGs are low default and high rate of recovery. Repayment of loan is made easy to the borrower by allowing them to repay in instalments. The period allowed by sample SHGs to repay the loan in instalments are represented in Table 4.2.4
TABLE 4.2.4
NUMBER OF INSTALMENT FOR REPAYMENT OF LOAN
Number of Instalment Total Amount of loan One Two Three More than 3 extended F F % F % F % F % Up to Rs.3,000 - - 42 26.75 29 18.47 86 54.78 157 Rs. 3,001 to 6,000 10 9.17 - - 22 20.18 77 70.64 109 Rs. 6,001 to 9,000 7 63.64 - - - - 4 36.36 11 More then Rs.9,000 6 5.94 - - 19 18.81 76 75.25 101 Total 23 6.08 42 11.11 70 18.52 243 64.29 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
It is seen from Table 4.2.4 that SHG allows their member borrower to repay the loan in installments. The number of instalments varied from one to four. It is observed from the above table that two hundred and forty three SHGs – respondents have allowed their member - borrower to repay their loan amount in four instalments.
Twenty three SHGs – respondents have disbursed loan on the condition of repaying the entire loan amount in instalments as desired by the animator on one lump sum. The leaders are elected from among the members on democratic basis. The administration and management of SHG are very easy and convenient. The burden and benefits are shared by the members of SHGs as they have more mutual knowledge about each other.
In order to find the relationship between the amount of loan extended to the members from the savings in a meeting and the instalment period allowed to the members for the repayment of internal loan, a Chi-square test was used and result of the test is shown in the following Table 4.2.4a.
TABLE 4.2.4a ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AMOUNT OF LOAN AND INSTALMENT Calculated Degrees ‘p’ Factor Remarks Chi-square value of freedom Value Amount of loan Highly 138.59 9 < 0.001 extended Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.001 and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association found between the amount of loan extended to the members from savings in a meeting and the instalment period allowed to the members for the repayment of internal loan. Reducing the cost of deposit is vital for the sound financial position for the credit institutions. Excellent recovery rate and meagre default
are important features of SHGs.
STATUS OF REPAYMENT The status of repayment by members of sample SHGs is exhibited in Table 4.2.5.
TABLE 4.2.5 STATUS OF REPAYMENT
Status of repayment of internal loan by the members Total No paid on paid Amount of loan Paid before the due prompt the due after the extended date re- date due date F payment F % F % F % F % Up to Rs.3,000 52 33.12 64 40.76 22 14.01 19 12.10 157 Rs. 3,001 to 6,000 14 12.84 64 58.72 31 28.44 - - 109 Rs. 6,001 to 9,000 - - 11 100 - - - - 11 More then 27 26.73 55 54.46 11 10.89 8 7.92 101 Rs.9,000 Total 93 24.60 194 51.32 64 16.93 27 7.14 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.2.5 shows the status of repayment of loan by the members. It is
clear from the Table that SHGs – respondents ensured prompt repayment of loan on the
part of members. The analysis of the table also brings the fact that only 7.14 percent of
SHGs respondents are not in a position to ensure prompt repayment. A well suit
repayment culture is preconceived in SHGs. Well knowledge of members bring them
closer to understand the benefits of prompt repayment. Every member – borrower
aware that the loan should be repaid on or before the due date, which develops well
repayment culture among them.
In order to find the relationship between the Amount of loan extended to the
members from savings in a meeting and the Status of repayment of internal loan by the members, a Chi-square test was used and result of the test is shown in the following
Table 4.2.5a.
TABLE 4.2.5a ASOCIATION BETWEEN AMOUNT OF LOAN AND STATUS OF REPAYMENT Calculated Degrees ‘p’ Factor Remarks Chi-square value of freedom Value Amount of loan Highly 50.91 9 < 0.001 extended Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association is found between the amount of loan extended to the members from savings in a meeting and the status of repayment of internal loan by the members.
LOND UNDER THE VARIOUS SCHEMES
Government of India launched SGSY from 1st April, 1999. The main objective of the scheme is to assist poor families by providing them income generating assets through blending of bank credit and Government subsidy. TAHDCO provides loan to
SC/ST members of SHGs. Direct linkage under NABARD is also available to SHGs.
Block wise status of sample SHGs under various schemes are given in Table 4.3.1.
TABLE 4.3.1 LOAN UNDER THE VARIOUS SCHEMES
Schemes have SHG availed from bank Total Direct SGSY- SGSY- THDHCO THDHCO- linkage Block Revolving Economic -Revolving Economic Others under F Fund Activity Fund Activity NABARD F % F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 11 30.56 11 30.56 1 2.78 5 13.89 6 16.67 2 5.56 36 Thirumarugal 4 19.05 6 28.57 4 19.05 3 14.29 2 9.52 2 9.52 21 Kilvelur 5 23.81 8 38.10 4 19.05 3 14.29 1 4.76 21 Keelaiyur 2 10.53 6 31.58 3 15.79 3 15.79 2 10.53 3 15.79 19 Thalainayar 8 33.33 4 16.67 4 16.67 5 20.83 3 12.50 24 Vedharanyam 11 26.19 15 35.71 4 9.52 5 11.90 5 11.90 2 4.76 42 Mayiladuthurai 13 28.26 11 23.91 6 13.04 10 21.74 4 8.70 2 4.35 46 Sembanarkoil 14 26.92 14 26.92 8 15.38 9 17.31 3 5.77 4 7.69 52 Sirkali 12 24.49 17 34.69 8 16.33 6 12.24 4 8.16 2 4.08 49 Kuttalam 7 25.00 9 32.14 3 10.71 3 10.71 3 10.71 3 10.71 28 Kollidam 12 30.00 12 30.00 4 10.00 7 17.50 4 10.00 1 2.50 40 Total 99 26.19 113 29.89 45 11.90 60 15.87 39 10.32 22 5.82 378 Source primary data; F: Frequency
Table 4.3.1 projects that there are three schemes viz. SGSY, TAHDCO and Direct
linkage under NABARD, under which SHGs are eligible to get financial assistance
from Co-operative and Nationalised banks. Both SGSY and TAHDCO provide
financial accommodation to SHGs.
Financial assistance under the two schemes (SGSY and TAHDCO) includes
provision of revolving fund and disbursement of loan for economic activities. It is
analysed from the table 4..3.1 that two hundred and twelve SHGs respondents have availed financial accommodation under SGSY scheme of which ninety nine SHGs respondents got accommodation of revolving fund and the remaining one hundred and thirteen have availed financial assistance for economic activities. In regard to
TAHDCO schemes one hundred and five SHG respondents have availed financial assistance, out of which forty five respondents got revolving fund and remaining sixty respondents availed loan for economic activities. In addition to these schemes,
NABARD has also made available financial accommodation to SHGs. Only 39 of them borrowed loan under NABARD direct linkage programme. Besides with the assistance of NGOs, SHGs have also got financial help from banks, only 22 of total SHGs respondents have been benefited. The above analysis throw highlight on the financial assistance made available to SHGs. It has been ascertained that Sembanarkoil block assumed first in availing financial accommodation and followed by other blocks.
Keelaiyur block registered the lowest number of SHGs financially benefited under these schemes.
DISBURSEMENT OF BANK LOAN
The villagers know better who is a risky borrower and who is a safe one. The safe borrowers grouped together to form SHG that keep out the risky one. Safe borrowers after repayment of loan amount which they have borrowed are entitled to borrow fresh credit at a large scale, while defaulters are cut off. The disbursement of loan amount in respect of sample SHGs in the eleven blocks are presented in Table 4.3.2.
TABLE 4.3.2 BANK LOAN AVAILED –BLOCK WISE Total amount of bank loan received from bank Total Rs. 25001 Rs. 50,001 Up to Rs. Above Block to to 25,000 Rs.1,00,000 F Rs.50,000 Rs.1,00,000 F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 4 11.11 15 41.67 6 16.67 11 30.56 36 Thirumarugal 2 9.52 6 28.57 2 9.52 11 52.38 21 Kilvelur 2 9.52 8 38.10 4 19.05 7 33.33 21 Keelaiyur 2 10.53 3 15.79 3 15.79 11 57.89 19 Thalainayar 4 16.67 11 45.83 3 12.50 6 25.00 24 Vedharanyam 4 9.52 17 40.48 6 14.29 15 35.71 42 Mayiladuthurai 4 8.70 19 41.30 8 17.39 15 32.61 46 Sembanarkoil 5 9.62 22 42.31 7 13.46 18 34.62 52 Sirkali 5 10.20 19 38.78 6 12.24 19 38.78 49 Kuttalam 2 7.14 7 25.00 8 28.57 11 39.29 28 Kollidam 1 2.50 20 50.00 7 17.50 12 30.00 40 Total 35 9.26 147 38.89 60 15.87 136 35.98 378 Source primary data; F: Frequency
The Table 4.3.2 shows the block wise bank loan availed by the sample SHGs.
SHGs borrowed bank loan under SGSY, TAHDCO and NABARD direct linkage (Bank credit) schemes. Normally the credit ranging between Rs.25,000 and Rs.60,000 in case of revolving fund, Rs.50,000 and above for economic activities. TNWDC and NGOs evaluated the performance of SHGs and rated them accordingly. SHGs who are rated first and second are eligible to avail financial accommodation from banks. One hundred and thirty six sample SHGs received above Rs.1,00,000 as bank loan. Similarly 147
SHGs got between Rs.25,000 and Rs.50,000. Whereas the amount of loan varied between Rs.50,000 and Rs.1,00,000 received by 60 SHGs in the study area. It is ascertained from the above analysis that more than one-third of the sample SHGs availed bank loan exceeding Rs.1,00,000. On the other hand nearly two-third of them received between Rs.25,000 and Rs.1,00,000. It indicates that the majority of the sample SHGs have availed meagre amount of loan from bank in the study area.
It is probed that Keelaiyur block SHGs assumed first position availing huge amount of loan from bank and followed by other blocks. Further, Thalainayar block has availed negligible amount of loan under various schemes. With launching of SGSY scheme and other smaller schemes of Tamil Nadu State Government, the flow of credit to SHGs has significantly increased.
DISBURSEMENT OF BANK LAON DISBURSEMENT
The main objective of the scheme is to assure sustainable income to the rural poor women through self-employment by promoting SHGs. The amount of credit granted to each member by sample SHGs in the eleven blocks under study are highlighted in Table 4.3.3.
TABLE 4.3.3 DISBURSEMENT OF BANK LOAN Amount of bank loan distributed per member Total Up to Rs. 5,001 to Rs. 10,001 to More than Block Rs.5,000 10,000 15,000 Rs. 15,000 F F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 15 41.67 10 27.78 6 16.67 5 13.89 36 Thirumarugal 9 42.86 5 23.81 5 23.81 2 9.52 21 Kilvelur 6 28.57 7 33.33 5 23.81 3 14.29 21 Keelaiyur 7 36.84 4 21.05 7 36.84 1 5.26 19 Thalainayar 12 50.00 8 33.33 2 8.33 2 8.33 24 Vedharanyam 18 42.86 13 30.95 5 11.90 6 14.29 42 Mayiladuthurai 23 50.00 12 26.09 8 17.39 3 6.52 46 Sembanarkoil 21 40.38 12 23.08 11 21.15 8 15.38 52 Sirkali 21 42.86 14 28.57 9 18.37 5 10.20 49 Kuttalam 7 25.00 7 25.00 9 32.14 5 17.86 28 Kollidam 16 40.00 13 32.50 7 17.50 4 10.00 40 Total 155 41.01 105 27.78 74 19.58 44 11.64 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
The Table 4.3.3 reveals the amount of bank loan disbursed to a member by the sample SHGs. Normally based on the demand, the amount of loan was shared among the members and such loans are utilized by the members for economic activities. 155 sample SHGs shared the loan proceeds with their members up to Rs.5,000 each, similarly 105 SHGs distributed the amount between Rs.5,001 and Rs.10,000 to their members. Further, more than Rs.15,000 each was paid by 44 sample SHGs in the study area.
It is ascertained that less than one-third of the sample SHGs disbursed the bank loan to their members above Rs.10,000. Further, more than two-third of them disbursed been subject to a maximum of Rs.10,000. It indicates majority of the sample
SHGs shared meagre amount of bank loan among the members.
It is suggested that the SHGs will have to improve their performance for getting huge amount of bank credit in Nagapattinam district. It is probed that majority of the sample SHGs of Keelaiyur and Kuttalam blocks have disbursed loan exceeding
Rs.15,000 per member. Further, one-half of the sample SHGs from Thalainayar and
Mayiladuthurai disbursed a very low amount to their members up to Rs.5,000 only.
RATE OF INTEREST
The interest is the main component in the credit management of SHGs. The rate of interest varies from one percent to three percent per month. The interest rate is considered higher. It was probed during the course of study and the results obtained from sample SHGs are projected in Table 4.3.4
TABLE 4.3.4 RATE OF INTEREST Rate of interest Total Block 1 % 2 % 3 % More than 3 % F F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 28 77.78 5 13.89 3 8.33 36 Thirumarugal 10 47.62 7 33.33 2 9.52 2 9.52 21 Kilvelur 14 66.67 5 23.81 1 4.76 1 4.76 21 Keelaiyur 12 63.16 5 26.32 1 5.26 1 5.26 19 Thalainayar 15 62.50 3 12.50 1 4.17 5 20.83 24 Vedharanyam 25 59.52 11 26.19 3 7.14 3 7.14 42 Mayiladuthurai 31 67.39 8 17.39 2 4.35 5 10.87 46 Sembanarkoil 36 69.23 8 15.38 3 5.77 5 9.62 52 Sirkali 33 67.35 10 20.41 3 6.12 3 6.12 49 Kuttalam 19 67.86 3 10.71 4 14.29 2 7.14 28 llidam 27 67.50 7 17.50 4 10.00 2 5.00 40 Total 250 66.14 72 19.05 24 6.35 32 8.47 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency Table 4.3.4 projects, the monthly rate of interest fixed by block wise sample
SHGs on bank loan disbursement to their members. Generally, the interest rate ranging from 1% to 5% per month. Out of 378 sample SHGs 250 of them fixed at 1% interest, whereas 32 sample SHGs fixed the rate of interest more than 3% per month.
It is seen from the above analysis that two hundred and fifty of the sample SHGs from all blocks fixed monthly rate of interest on bank loan disbursed to their members as 1%. Further, ninety six SHGs charged the rate of interest between from 2 to
3percent per month and the remaining thirty two SHGs charged interest more than 3 percent. It indicates that majority of the sample SHGs charged interest at more than three percent on bank loan disbursement. It has been ascertained that micro financing interests are higher which ranged about 24 percent.
There is a need for the reduction of rate of interest which ranges between 12% and
36% charged by SHGs for bank financed by banks. The best way to reduce the rate of interest, would be to encourage more MFIs because, the more competition will make them to innovate idea for the reduction of interest rates by means of lowering the management cost.
RE-PAYMENT IN INSTALMENT
The repayment of bank loan in instalments should be in time and credit repayment was still in progress with some instalments left to be paid. An assessment over the issue was made and the results are indicated in Table 4.3.5
TABLE 4.3.5 RE-PAYMENT IN INSTALMENT
Number of instalments fixed by the SHGs Total Block One Two Three More than 3 F F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 6 16.67 2 5.56 5 13.89 23 63.89 36 Thirumarugal 2 9.52 1 4.76 2 9.52 16 76.19 21 Kilvelur 6 28.57 1 4.76 3 14.29 11 52.38 21 Keelaiyur 1 5.26 2 10.53 3 15.79 13 68.42 19 Thalainayar 1 4.17 1 4.17 4 16.67 18 75.00 24 Vedharanyam 7 16.67 1 2.38 4 9.52 30 71.43 42 Mayiladuthurai 4 8.70 4 8.70 5 10.87 33 71.74 46 Sembanarkoil 7 13.46 4 7.69 4 7.69 37 71.15 52 Sirkali 8 16.33 3 6.12 4 8.16 34 69.39 49 Kuttalam 5 17.86 4 14.29 3 10.71 16 57.14 28 Kollidam 4 10.00 2 5.00 5 12.50 29 72.50 40 Total 51 13.49 25 6.61 42 11.11 260 68.78 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
Banks disbursed short term and medium term loan to SHGs under various schemes. Of which, SHGs are disbursed to their members. SHGs fix number of instalments for re-payment of the loan by the members within the stipulated credit period. 51 sample SHGs fixed at single instalment, similarly two and three instalments fixed by 25 and 42 SHGs respectively. On the other hand, 260 SHGs allowed their members to repay the loan amount in more than 3 instalments.
It is seen from the analysis that majority of the sample SHGs from each block fixed more than three instalments for recovery of bank loan from their members. It is suggested that SHG will have to be allowed to fix more than 3 instalments within the prescribed time. It will be easy for the borrower to make repayment without any difficulty, as equated instalment is small amount. STATUS OF RE-PAYMENT
The SHGs in the country have reached to 1.62 crore poor families and 8.01 crore poor people by giving them small loans42. It has been reported that 95% repayments have been made by SHGs across the country regularly and on the time given and there have nil NPAs. Nearly 90% of SHGs linked with banks are exclusively women SHGs comprising poor women. The SHGs – Bank linkage programme has emerged as a dominant micro finance dispensation model in the country. The status of repayment of bank loan in respect of sample SHGs in eleven blocks are given in Table
4.3.6.
TABLE 4.3.6 STATUS OF RE-PAYMENT Status of re-payment of the bank loan by the members Total Paid before Paid on the Paid after No prompt Block the due date due date due date re-payment F F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 8 22.22 17 47.22 7 19.44 4 11.11 36 Thirumarugal 4 19.05 12 57.14 4 19.05 1 4.76 21 Kilvelur 4 19.05 11 52.38 5 23.81 1 4.76 21 Keelaiyur 5 26.32 9 47.37 3 15.79 2 10.53 19 Thalainayar 7 29.17 9 37.50 6 25.00 2 8.33 24 Vedharanyam 9 21.43 22 52.38 9 21.43 2 4.76 42 Mayiladuthurai 12 26.09 22 47.83 9 19.57 3 6.52 46 Sembanarkoil 14 26.92 24 46.15 10 19.23 4 7.69 52 Sirkali 12 24.49 25 51.02 10 20.41 2 4.08 49 Kuttalam 6 21.43 17 60.71 4 14.29 1 3.57 28 Kollidam 13 32.50 18 45.00 7 17.50 2 5.00 40 Total 94 24.87 186 49.21 74 19.58 24 6.35 378 Source: primary data; F: Frequency
42 Southern Economist January 15, 2010 - Page.7
Table 4.3.6 depicts the status of repayment of loan. As it has been exhibited in the table, majority of sample SHGs (280) made prompt repayment of loan to the bank.
The burning problem of institutional agencies is overdue. But the loans granted to SHG are repaid on or before the due date. Such a repayment culture prevailed in majority of
SHGs in the sample district. Prompt repayment ensures sound financial condition of financing institution and availability of fresh credit to borrowers.
Only six percent of sample SHGs showed that their repayments are delayed and did not make prompt repayment. It has been ascertained the causes for delayed repayment during the course of study. Inadequate loan to carry out economic activities, leads to diversion of loan for family expenses. Usually the loan is to be advanced for productive purposes. When the loan is utilized for the purpose which will generate income, the income earned will be used to repay the loan. It is suggested that banks and lenders of SHGs jointly draw efforts to enlighten the members for proper utilization of loan. For which, effective supervision over the utilization of loan is to be made by bankers.
The performance of sample SHGs has been assessed in terms of existence of
SHGs, size of membership, attendance in meetings of SHGs, savings collected, training imparted, maintenance of accounts, borrowing from banks and disbursement of loan to members. The assessment over the performance of sample SHGs reveals the under mentioned facts. Majority of sample units have two to four years of existence.
Optimum membership was observed in sample groups. Nearly half of sample respondents have ninety percent attendance in the meeting of SHGs. Sample units collected low level of savings from their members. Less number of SHGs members underwent training. Sample units ensure proper maintenance of accounts. Disbursement of bank credit and internal lending to sample respondents were inadequate.
CHAPTER - V
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF
WOMEN SHGs
CHAPTER – V
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF WOMEN SELF HELP GROUPS
The economic condition is very important since social and political conditions to a significant extent depend on economic status. The women mostly have low earnings and limited access over the income of the spouse.
Food insecurity is another burning problem faced by these households. To provide food security, the income of women needs to be increased. The earning capacity can be enhanced by building through training, provision of credit for acquiring income generating assets and credit to enter in to petty ventures. This chapter indents to assess the impact of SHG on the economic condition of women members. The economic conditions of sample respondents is analysed in terms of skill formation through training, employment generation entrepreneurial development and asset creation
DEMOGRAPHY PROFILE In order to understand the socio-economic status of the members, the data regarding area, age, membership experience, marital status, family nature, size, religion, community and level of literacy were collected and presented in
Table 5.1
TABLE 5.1(a) DEMOGRAPHY PROFILES OF THE SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Position in SHG Total Demography variables Animator Representative Accountant Member F % F % F % F % F % Rural 95 14.29 66 9.92 22 3.31 361 54.29 544 81.80 Area Urban 35 5.26 20 3.01 2 0.30 64 9.62 121 18.20 Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Up to 25 - - 1 0.15 - - 33 4.96 34 5.11 26 to 35 49 7.37 - - 23 3.46 88 13.23 160 24.06 Age 36 to 45 80 12.03 75 11.28 - - 137 20.60 292 43.91 Above 45 1 0.15 10 1.50 1 0.15 167 25.11 179 26.92 Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Up to 2 28 4.21 18 2.71 2 0.30 63 9.47 111 16.69 years 2 to 4 48 7.22 29 4.36 12 1.80 151 22.71 240 36.09 Year of years Experience 4 to 6 31 4.66 18 2.71 4 0.60 105 15.79 158 23.76 in SHG years Above 6 23 3.46 21 3.16 6 0.90 106 15.94 156 23.46 years Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Married 116 17.44 56 8.42 1 0.15 380 57.14 553 83.16 Unmarried - - 26 3.91 - - - - 26 3.91 Martial Widow 1 0.15 3 0.45 23 3.46 45 6.77 72 10.83 status Divorced 13 1.95 1 0.15 - - - - 14 2.11 Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Joint 20 3.01 2 0.30 24 3.61 107 16.09 153 23.01 Nature of Nuclear 110 16.54 84 12.63 - - 318 47.82 512 76.99 family Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
TABLE 5.1(b) DEMOGRAPHY PROFILES OF THE SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Position in SHG Total
Demography variables Animator Representative Accountant Member F %
F % F % F % F % Up to 3 1 0.15 1 0.15 - - 44 6.62 46 6.92 4 - 5 115 17.29 82 12.33 - - 228 34.29 425 63.91 Size of the 5 - 6 1 0.15 1 0.15 23 3.46 77 11.58 102 15.34 family Above 6 13 1.95 2 0.30 1 0.15 76 11.43 92 13.83 Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Hindu 103 15.49 85 12.78 1 0.15 343 51.58 532 80.00 Muslim 27 4.06 - - - - 23 3.46 50 7.52 Religion Christen - - 1 0.15 23 3.46 59 8.87 83 12.48 Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 OC 26 3.91 - - - - 58 8.72 84 12.63 BC 51 7.67 33 4.96 - - 111 16.69 195 29.32 Comminute S C/S T 52 7.82 15 2.26 1 0.15 102 15.34 170 25.56 Others 1 0.15 38 5.71 23 3.46 154 23.16 216 32.48 Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Illiterate - - 4 0.60 - - 93 13.98 97 14.59 Primary 74 11.13 46 6.92 1 0.15 219 32.93 340 51.13 Level of Secondary 23 3.46 36 5.41 - - 61 9.17 120 18.05 literacy Above 33 4.96 - - 23 3.46 52 7.82 108 16.24 Secondary Total 130 19.55 86 12.93 24 3.61 425 63.91 665 100 Source: Primary Data, F: Frequency
It is seen from the Table 5.1 more than eighty one percent of the sample
respondents are rural people rest of them urbaners created awareness among
women both in social and economic aspects. It could be observed from the table
that more than one-fourth (29.16%) of the respondents were young who are in the age between 18 to 35 and less than one - half (i.e.43.91%) were middle aged (36 to 45). Finally, more than one- fourth (26.92%) were old age members.
It is ascertained that nearly half of them were middle aged group. The respondents’ position in SHGs and duration of their membership are important characteristics that are expected to affect their perception and behavior. In regard to their position in SHG, majority of the respondents (63.91%) were members and more than one-third of them were office bearers. As regards the duration of membership, two hundred and forty respondents have 3 to 4 years experience and 156 of them have above 6 years. It is ascertained that only 23 percent of the sample respondents have a long period of experience with SHGs in the study area. Table 5.1 shows that overwhelming majorities i.e., five hundred and fifty three of the sample respondents were married, twenty six were unmarried, seventy two were widow and fourteen were divorcee. This finding is in line with that of the report of the planning commission of SHG (2008) which stated that most of the respondents were married43. This could be attributed to the reason that out of economic necessity of the family, married women join
SHGs as members to avail the micro credit facility and also to involve in the entrepreneurial activities to augment their family income.
More than three-fourth (76.99%) of the respondents belong to nuclear family and rest were in joint family. The finding is in accordance with that of
Loyala extension services study (2004) and Suresh et al.(2009). Want of independence and social and economic problems associated with joint family
43 Preeti Sharma Varma Shashi Kanta (2008) “Women Empowerment through entrepreneurial activities of self Help Groups Indian Res. J. Ext.Edu., Vol. 8,No.1,pp.62-66 system might be the reasons for opting nuclear family. A majority (63.91%) of the respondents maintained medium family size (4 to 5 members) while 6.92% and 13.83% of them had small and large sizes respectively. Jothilakshmi.M,
R.Krishnaraj and N.throuK.Sudeepkumar (2011) reported similar findings in respect of size of the family44. The Table 5.1 reveals that five hundred and thirty two sample respondents were Hindus, fifty and eighty three respondents are
Muslims and Christian respectively. It is ascertained that majority of the respondents were Hindus. Twenty nine percent of the respondents belong to backward class and twenty five percent of them most backward class and thirty two percent are SC/ST members. It is probed that majority of the sample respondents are SC/ST people. They are interested to participate in Group activities for economic developments in the sample district. It is noteworthy that women from all strata of the society, irrespective of caste, class or religion are coming together and forming self help groups. In real sense, women groups have initiated the process of social engineering. The literacy position says that
14.59% were illiterates, 18.05% were middle and 16.24% were secondary and above secondary education respectively. It is ascertained that more than one-half of the respondents had primary education.
INFLUENCE FOR JOINING IN SHG
SHGs are agents of empowerment and development of women. It is mainly through the group process and participation in decision making led to
44 Jothilakshmi.M, R. Krishnaraj and N.K. Sudeepkumar (2011) “Entrepreneurial Capacity Building Needs of Rural women SHGs in Alternative Poultry Farming: A Case Study in Tamil; Nadu, India” – The IUP Journal of Entrepreneurship Development, Vol. VIII, No. 2, 2011 empowerment of women. The voiceless and powerless women realize their
potentialities through groups. Here an attempt is made to enlist the person who
influenced to join in SHGs. The response given by the sample respondents is
given in Table 5.2.1.
TABLE 5.2.1 INFLUENCE FOR JOINING IN SHG - BLOCK WISE
Person influence to join in SHG Total Neighbors Block NGO Animator Other & Friends F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 15 2.26 12 1.80 31 4.66 6 0.90 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 5 0.75 8 1.20 21 3.16 3 0.45 37 5.56 Kilvelur 10 1.50 9 1.35 16 2.41 3 0.45 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 9 1.35 9 1.35 17 2.56 1 0.15 36 5.41 Thalainayar 7 1.05 12 1.80 18 2.71 5 0.75 42 6.32 Vedharanyam 22 3.31 17 2.56 31 4.66 4 0.60 74 11.13 Mayiladuthurai 16 2.41 16 2.41 45 6.77 3 0.45 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 20 3.01 18 2.71 47 7.07 6 0.90 91 13.68 Kuttalam 9 1.35 12 1.80 24 3.61 3 0.45 48 7.22 Sirkali 25 3.76 19 2.86 37 5.56 5 0.75 86 12.93 Kollidam 16 2.41 14 2.11 33 4.96 6 0.90 69 10.38 Total 154 23.16 146 21.95 320 48.12 45 6.77 665 100 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
As it is exhibited in Table 5.2.1 NGOs, Animators, friends and
neighbors have influenced the sample respondents to enroll in the SHG.
Neighbors and friends are predominantly influenced three hundred and twenty
women to register as members in the groups. NGOs have also played a vital role in the admission of one hundred and fifty four women as members. It is encouraging to note that the leaders (Animator) have also contributed for the admission of one hundred and forty six women as members.
It is observed that a significant contribution made by NGOs and Animators in admitting members in SHGs. It has been ascertained that nearly half of the sample respondents reported that they were persuaded to join the group by their neighbors and friends. Unlike elsewhere in Tamil Nadu a very few NGOs are active in organizing and facilitating SHGs in Nagapattinam district. Involvement of NGOs would facilitate infusion of better development orientation to SHGs in the sample district. The State Government needs to encourage NGOs by way of aid to welfare and development activities of them.
REASONS FOR JOINING IN SHGS
Even though SHGs are organized by NGOs, banks, Government agency and others, the respondents were asked to report the reasons to join in SHGs.
They reported several reasons, they are getting loan, promoting saving habit, improving social status and others. The reported causes were presented in Table
5.2.2.
TABLE 5.2.2 REASONS FOR JOINING IN SHGS - BLOCK WISE
Reasons for joining in SHGs Total For For For promoting For other Block getting social savings reasons loan status F % habit F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 16 2.41 40 6.02 3 0.45 5 0.75 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 11 1.65 22 3.31 - - 4 0.60 37 5.56 Kilvelur 11 1.65 19 2.86 - - 8 1.20 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 10 1.50 16 2.41 3 0.45 7 1.05 36 5.41 Thalainayar 11 1.65 25 3.76 - - 6 0.90 42 6.32 Vedharanyam 20 3.01 43 6.47 - - 11 1.65 74 11.13 Mayiladuthurai 27 4.06 33 4.96 6 0.90 14 2.11 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 23 3.46 50 7.52 7 1.05 11 1.65 91 13.68 Kuttalam 14 2.11 23 3.46 2 0.30 9 1.35 48 7.22 Sirkali 22 3.31 42 6.32 9 1.35 13 1.95 86 12.93 Kollidam 22 3.31 34 5.11 4 0.60 9 1.35 69 10.38 Total 187 28.12 347 52.18 34 5.11 97 14.59 665 100 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Fifty two percent of sample respondents reported that they have joined for promoting their level of saving through SHGs for future consumptions.
Twenty eight of them said that they have joined to avail loan. The utilization of external inflow of cash for economic activities increased their socio-economic status. It is ascertained that more than one half of the sample respondents have become members for promoting saving habit and improving the level of saving through their surplus income. It indicates that SHGs have infused the minds of women and thereby inculcated the habit of thrift and savings among rural and urban poor women in Nagapattinam district.
TRAINING PROGRAMME ATTENDED
Training is the process of acquiring and improving the skill, knowledge and attitude required for job performance. Training helps in optimum utilization and development of human resources. It boosts the morale of the person by motivation. It is considered pertinent to know how many training programmes have been attended by the respondents. The responses received from the sample respondents are indicated in Table 5.2.3.
TABLE 5.2.3 TRAINING PROGRAMME ATTENDED - BLOCK WISE Number of training programme attended Total Block Nil Up to 3 4 - 6 7 - 9 Above 9 F % F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 14 2.11 31 4.66 12 1.80 3 0.45 4 0.60 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 9 1.35 15 2.26 10 1.50 3 0.45 - 37 5.56 Kilvelur 12 1.80 15 2.26 7 1.05 3 0.45 1 0.15 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 8 1.20 19 2.86 5 0.75 1 0.15 3 0.45 36 5.41 Thalainayar 12 1.80 18 2.71 5 0.75 5 0.75 2 0.30 42 6.32 Vedharanyam 13 1.95 36 5.41 19 2.86 2 0.30 4 0.60 74 11.13 Mayiladuthurai 18 2.71 29 4.36 22 3.31 3 0.45 8 1.20 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 20 3.01 46 6.92 13 1.95 4 0.60 8 1.20 91 13.68 Kuttalam 13 1.95 19 2.86 11 1.65 1 0.15 4 0.60 48 7.22 Sirkali 18 2.71 41 6.17 14 2.11 3 0.45 10 1.50 86 12.93 Kollidam 18 2.71 26 3.91 16 2.41 1 0.15 8 1.20 69 10.38 Total 155 23.31 295 44.36 134 20.15 29 4.36 52 7.82 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data, F: Frequency
Table 5.2.3 shows the number of training programmes attended by the
respondents. It is clear from the table, only eight percent (52 members) of the
sample respondents have participated more than nine programmes. It is reported
that nearly half of them (44 percent) underwent up to three programmes. It is
observed that nearly one fourth of them have availed no training programme at
all. It has been ascertained that the training facilities given to the members of
SHGs in the specific areas of product selection, quality of products, production
techniques, managerial ability, packing, other technical knowledge etc., are not
adequate to compete with that of strong units. In the sample district, there are
plenty of available resources. Information about available materials and their varied uses should be disseminated to SHGs. Proper encouragement and training should be given to them to make innovative products by using these available materials. In order to acquire knowledge, training programme should be conducted at Panchayat level under the auspices of local bodies.
OPINION ON TRAINING PROGRAMME
Skill generation is an important component of SHGs, as it helps the members to utilize the credit in a fruitful manner. The members do not have any idea about lucrative activities in which they can invest training solves this problem. The opinion of respondents are elucidated and presented in Table
5.2.4.
TABLE 5.2.4 OPINION ON TRAINING PROGRAMME Opinion Total Demographic Variables Most useful Useful Give a confidence Not useful F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 12 2.35 24 4.71 12 2.35 2 0.39 50 9.80 Thirumarugal 5 0.98 19 3.73 3 0.59 1 0.20 28 5.49 Kilvelur 9 1.76 13 2.55 2 0.39 2 0.39 26 5.10 Keelaiyur 8 1.57 13 2.55 6 1.18 1 0.20 28 5.49 Thalainayar 11 2.16 15 2.94 1 0.20 3 0.59 30 5.88 Name of the Block Vedharanyam 17 3.33 32 6.27 7 1.37 5 0.98 61 11.96 Mayiladuthurai 16 3.14 34 6.67 8 1.57 4 0.78 62 12.16 Sembanarkoil 21 4.12 32 6.27 12 2.35 6 1.18 71 13.92 Kuttalam 9 1.76 18 3.53 4 0.78 4 0.78 35 6.86 Sirkali 22 4.31 26 5.10 16 3.14 4 0.78 68 13.33 Kollidam 13 2.55 24 4.71 8 1.57 6 1.18 51 10.00 Up to 2 years 27 5.29 41 8.04 14 2.75 2 0.39 84 16.47 Membership 2 to 4 years 51 10.00 92 18.04 27 5.29 20 3.92 190 37.25 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 29 5.69 58 11.37 24 4.71 8 1.57 119 23.33 Above 6 years 36 7.06 59 11.57 14 2.75 8 1.57 117 22.94 Animator 56 10.98 29 5.69 45 8.82 - - 130 25.49 Representative 31 6.08 34 6.67 18 3.53 - - 83 16.27 Position in SHG Accountant 23 4.51 ------23 4.51 Member 33 6.47 187 36.67 16 3.14 38 7.45 274 53.73 Total 143 28.04 250 49.02 79 15.49 38 7.45 510 100 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Table 5.2.4 illuminates the opinion of sample respondents about the training in which they have participated. It is heartening to note that more than one-fourth
(143) of the respondents have opined that the training programmes are most useful to them. On the contrary nearly eight percent of them reported that the training conducted have no use at all. It is observed that five hundred and ten respondents (77%) have attended the training programme. Nearly half of the respondents, who have under gone training, opined that the programmes are useful to them. It is desired to know the position of the trainees in the SHGs. For which the opinion extended by them are eleven percent (56) are Animator, five percent (23) are accountants, six percent (31) are representatives and six percent
(33) are members. In regard to their experience, seven percent (36) have more than six years of experience in the group as member. Twenty nine have gained membership for a period between five and six years. Twenty seven have experience up to two years as member in the SHGs. It is observed that nearly half of the respondents who have participated the training programmes said that the trainings were useful to them and more than one-fourth of them opined that the trainings in which they under went are very useful. Hence, identifying the right members from SHGs to offer training is essential to develop the capacity effectively and also income generating capacity. The developmental agencies have to take efforts before initiating the training programme. This course of action would build competence which would be useful in the long run in terms of knowledge and skill utilization towards increased productivity and income. Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the Opinion on the training programme attended, the chi square test is used at 5% level of significance and the results are given in
Table 5.2.4(a).
TABLE 5.2.4 (a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND OPINION ON TRAINING PROGRAMME
Variables Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 9.90 9 0.359 Not Significant Position in SHG 218.01 9 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the position in SHG and Opinion about the training programme attended.
IMPACT ON TRAINING PROGRAMME
Economic empowerment of Women is being sought to be achieved through the instrumentally of women’s vocational training, informal skill training and more sophisticated training in technical institution. At this juncture, it is pertinent to understand the impact of training programme in which the respondents participated. Opinion of sample respondents is solicited and are given in Table 5.2.5
TABLE 5.2.5 IMPACT ON TRAINING PROGRAMME Impact on Training Programme Total Doing New Doing traditional Business Not Other Demographic Variables Business effectively benefited opinion F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 11 2.16 21 4.12 4 0.78 14 2.75 50 9.80 Thirumarugal 7 1.37 14 2.75 3 0.59 4 0.78 28 5.49 Kilvelur 9 1.76 7 1.37 6 1.18 4 0.78 26 5.10 Keelaiyur 4 0.78 13 2.55 3 0.59 8 1.57 28 5.49 Thalainayar 7 1.37 9 1.76 7 1.37 7 1.37 30 5.88 Name of the Block Vedharanyam 18 3.53 18 3.53 11 2.16 14 2.75 61 11.96 Mayiladuthurai 11 2.16 36 7.06 8 1.57 7 1.37 62 12.16 Sembanarkoil 16 3.14 31 6.08 9 1.76 15 2.94 71 13.92 Kuttalam 10 1.96 15 2.94 7 1.37 3 0.59 35 6.86 Sirkali 17 3.33 25 4.90 8 1.57 18 3.53 68 13.33 Kollidam 10 1.96 22 4.31 9 1.76 10 1.96 51 10.00 Up to 2 years 19 3.73 34 6.67 9 1.76 22 4.31 84 16.47 Membership experience 2 to 4 years 42 8.24 80 15.69 33 6.47 35 6.86 190 37.25 in SHG 4 to 6 years 31 6.08 48 9.41 15 2.94 25 4.90 119 23.33 Above 6 years 28 5.49 49 9.61 18 3.53 22 4.31 117 22.94 Animator 33 6.47 70 13.73 - - 27 5.29 130 25.49 Representative 1 0.20 4 0.78 30 5.88 48 9.41 83 16.27 Position in SHG Accountant - - 23 4.51 - - - - 23 4.51 Member 86 16.86 114 22.35 45 8.82 29 5.69 274 53.73 Total 120 23.53 211 41.37 75 14.71 104 20.39 510 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Table 5.2.5 illustrates the opinion of respondents about the impact of training programme. It is noted that five hundred and ten sample respondents underwent training. One hundred and twenty of them have commenced their new ventures. The new business that are undertaken by them include toys making, candles, coir products, agar bathi, dry fish processing, pickles, fancy stores and soap making. On the other hand two hundred and eleven of them are engaged in their traditional business effectively such as paddy and vegetable cultivation, fish culture, shop, coconut leaf weaving, mini dairy, brick making and coir making. Seventy five of the trainees opined that they derived no benefit by attending the training programmes.
Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the impact on Training Programme, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in Table
5.2.5(a).
TABLE 5.2.5(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND IMPACT ON TRAINING PROGRAMME Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 4.74 9 0.857 Not Significant Position in SHG 204.85 9 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the position in SHG and the Impact on Training
Programme.
NATURE OF THE BUSINESS
SHGs organize rural poor women and motivate entrepreneurship in them by providing financial help in a small way under micro credit scheme.
Micro credit programmes extend small loans to poor people for self employment projects that generate income allowing them to care for themselves and their families. Income generating activities taken up by the members of the groups has given the monthly return to them. The economic activities which are undertaken by sample respondents are grouped into five viz., production, making service and others. The particulars of sample respondents in respect of economic activities are presented in Table 5.2.6.
TABLE 5.2.6 NATURE OF THE BUSINESS OF SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Nature of the Business Total Demographic Variables Production Making Service Others F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 46 6.92 9 1.35 - - 9 1.35 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 24 3.61 6 0.90 5 0.75 2 0.30 37 5.56 Kilvelur 38 5.71 ------38 5.71 Keelaiyur 30 4.51 6 0.90 - - - - 36 5.41 Thalainayar 34 5.11 - - - - 8 1.20 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 52 7.82 8 1.20 - - 14 2.11 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 44 6.62 25 3.76 - - 11 1.65 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 56 8.42 24 3.61 - - 11 1.65 91 13.68 Kuttalam 31 4.66 14 2.11 - - 3 0.45 48 7.22 Sirkali 48 7.22 29 4.36 - - 9 1.35 86 12.93 Kollidam 36 5.41 19 2.86 - - 14 2.11 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 75 11.28 24 3.61 1 0.15 11 1.65 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 159 23.91 47 7.07 1 0.15 33 4.96 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 102 15.34 33 4.96 1 0.15 22 3.31 158 23.76 Above 6 years 103 15.49 36 5.41 2 0.30 15 2.26 156 23.46 Animator 71 10.68 49 7.37 2 0.30 8 1.20 130 19.55 Position in Representative 58 8.72 7 1.05 1 0.15 20 3.01 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 24 3.61 ------24 3.61 Member 286 43.01 84 12.63 2 0.30 53 7.97 425 63.91 Total 439 66.02 140 21.05 5 0.75 81 12.18 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
As it is exhibited in Table 5.2.6, the economic activities which are
undertaken by the sample respondents include production, making service and
others. It is observed that more than two-third of them involved in production
activities, which include production of candle, agar bathi, detergent soap, dry
fish processing, prawn culture, fish culture and mini dairy. More than one-fifth
of sample respondents engaged in making of bricks, toys, coconut leaves
weaving and coir products. Only five respondents are rendering services like collection and distribution of milk. Twelve percent of them commenced their business units such as grocery stores, fancy stores, cattle rearing, paddy and vegetable cultivation.
It is also noticed from the table that five hundred and fifty four sample respondents have above three years membership experience in SHGs and hundred and eleven of them have experience below three years. Further it is heartening to observe that two hundred and forty of them are animators, representatives and accountants and the remaining four hundred and twenty five of them are members of SHGs. Developing micro entrepreneurship with organizational and community based support is one way of strengthening inclusive growth. Capacity building among micro enterprises needs to be done through training and technical assistance in co-ordination with promotional agencies specializing in training and technical assistance.
Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the nature of business doing by them, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in Table
5.2.6(a).
TABLE 5.2.6(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND NATURE OF BUSINESS DOING Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 3.86 9 0.920 Not Significant Position in SHG 53.57 9 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 for the demographic variables of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association found between the Name of Block, position in SHG and the nature of business doing.
NUMBER OF MANPOWER USED
SHG generates employment opportunities creates conducive economic infrastructure and further confirms economically best and optimum utilization of unutilized natural and human resources. The particulars relate to sample respondents in regard to manpower use is given in Table 5.2.7.
TABLE 5.2.7 NUMBER OF MANPOWER USED BY SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Number of Employee Total Demographic Variables Within 5 5 to 10 10 to 15 Above 15 F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 36 5.41 16 2.41 9 1.35 3 0.45 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 18 2.71 11 1.65 7 1.05 1 0.15 37 5.56 Kilvelur 14 2.11 15 2.26 8 1.20 1 0.15 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 14 2.11 15 2.26 7 1.05 - - 36 5.41 Thalainayar 23 3.46 13 1.95 5 0.75 1 0.15 42 6.32 Name of the Block Vedharanyam 48 7.22 20 3.01 6 0.90 - - 74 11.13 Mayiladuthurai 47 7.07 23 3.46 9 1.35 1 0.15 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 55 8.27 21 3.16 13 1.95 2 0.30 91 13.68 Kuttalam 30 4.51 12 1.80 5 0.75 1 0.15 48 7.22 Sirkali 55 8.27 19 2.86 8 1.20 4 0.60 86 12.93 Kollidam 48 7.22 16 2.41 5 0.75 - - 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 63 9.47 32 4.81 14 2.11 2 0.30 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 147 22.11 59 8.87 26 3.91 8 1.20 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 89 13.38 46 6.92 21 3.16 2 0.30 158 23.76 Above 6 years 89 13.38 44 6.62 21 3.16 2 0.30 156 23.46 Animator 74 11.13 55 8.27 1 0.15 - - 130 19.55 Representative 47 7.07 25 3.76 9 1.35 5 0.75 86 12.93 Position in SHG Accountant 5 0.75 2 0.30 9 1.35 8 1.20 24 3.61 Member 262 39.40 99 14.89 63 9.47 1 0.15 425 63.91 Total 388 58.35 181 27.22 82 12.33 14 2.11 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Table 5.2.7 illustrates the manpower used in the micro enterprises of sample respondents. It is seen that three hundred and eighty eight respondents employed up to five persons. One hundred and eighty one of them employed persons exceeding five and below ten. It is quite interesting that ninety six micro enterprises of them have more than ten employers. It is observed that five hundred and fifty four respondents have more than three years membership experience. While hundred and eleven of them have up to two years membership experience in SHGs. Further, it is noticed that two hundred and forty of them assumed various position such as animator, representatives and accountant.
It is highly appreciable that the micro enterprises are following labour intensive techniques rather than mechanization. The sample district has been endowed with rich and natural and human resources which need proper utilization by adopting modern technology for growth and development of the district economically. Hence, micro entrepreneurship is essential for proper use of renewable and non-renewable natural resources and to provide employment to the unemployed youths. Many women entrepreneurs in the sample area are playing a vital role in this direction through creation of utilities and generation of employment.
Further, in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the Number of Manpower used in Business, the chi square test is used at 5% level of significance and the results are given in Table
5.2.7(a). TABLE 5.2.7(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND NUMBER OF MANPOWER USED Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 5.05 9 0.830 Not Significant Position in SHG 178.75 9 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the position in SHG and the Number of Manpower used in their Business.
SOURCES OF MAN POWER USED
The economic progress of the study area depends on the productivity of both male and female workforce. However women in the sample area confined within the four walls of their home and were dominated by males. Of late, there has been tremendous progress in the social, cultural environment in the sample district. Women are now participating in all productive activities and are at par with men. No doubt the SHG movement in the district has been working in the right direction, but it is necessary to empower more and more in social and economic matters for the interest of the family in particular and the district in general. The details pertaining to sources of manpower used in the micro enterprises of sample respondents are indicated in Table 5.2.8.
TABLE 5.2.8 SOURCES OF MAN POWER USED BY SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Sources Total Family Family Out side and out Demographic Variables members person side F % person F % F % F % Nagapattinam 20 3.01 15 2.26 29 4.36 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 17 2.56 4 0.60 16 2.41 37 5.56 Kilvelur 15 2.26 10 1.50 13 1.95 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 9 1.35 11 1.65 16 2.41 36 5.41 Thalainayar 19 2.86 7 1.05 16 2.41 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 38 5.71 11 1.65 25 3.76 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 27 4.06 20 3.01 33 4.96 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 25 3.76 22 3.31 44 6.62 91 13.68 Kuttalam 17 2.56 13 1.95 18 2.71 48 7.22 Sirkali 28 4.21 17 2.56 41 6.17 86 12.93 Kollidam 27 4.06 16 2.41 26 3.91 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 34 5.11 22 3.31 55 8.27 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 93 13.98 54 8.12 93 13.98 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 50 7.52 36 5.41 72 10.83 158 23.76 Above 6 years 65 9.77 34 5.11 57 8.57 156 23.46 Animator 43 6.47 43 6.47 44 6.62 130 19.55 Position in Representative 42 6.32 3 0.45 41 6.17 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 1 0.15 - - 23 3.46 24 3.61 Member 156 23.46 100 15.04 169 25.41 425 63.91 Total 242 36.39 146 21.95 277 41.65 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
As illustrated in Table 5.2.8, the sources available for manpower are grouped into three categories viz., Family members, outsiders and family and outside members. It is seen that two hundred and forty two respondents said that their enterprises are functioning with their family members alone. One hundred and forty six respondents depended on outside sources. Further, there are two hundred and seventy seven respondents told that they used both family and outside members for their business units. It is also noticed that two hundred and twenty two respondents have experience as members in SHGs for a period exceeding three years. It is encouraging to observe that two hundred and forty respondents were assumed the position of animators, representative and accountant.
Further, in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the Sources of Man power used for their business, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in
Table 5.2.8(a).
TABLE 5.2.8(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND SOURCES OF MAN POWER USED Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 7.57 6 0.271 Not Significant Position in SHG 57.27 6 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association is found between the position in SHG and the Sources of Man power used for business.
NATURE OF CAPITAL EMPLOYED
Capital is life blood of every business. Women enterprises also required finance. The sources of capital available to them are owned and borrowed sources. The particulars relating to sources of capital are indicated in Table
5.2.9.
TABLE 5.2.9 NATURE OF CAPITAL EMPLOYED BY SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Nature of capital Total Owned Borrowed Mixed Demographic Variables capital capital capital F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 9 1.35 19 2.86 36 5.41 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 8 1.20 10 1.50 19 2.86 37 5.56 Kilvelur 8 1.20 8 1.20 22 3.31 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 7 1.05 9 1.35 20 3.01 36 5.41 Thalainayar 9 1.35 7 1.05 26 3.91 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 10 1.50 24 3.61 40 6.02 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 12 1.80 10 1.50 58 8.72 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 12 1.80 25 3.76 54 8.12 91 13.68 Kuttalam 8 1.20 9 1.35 31 4.66 48 7.22 Sirkali 8 1.20 25 3.76 53 7.97 86 12.93 Kollidam 6 0.90 15 2.26 48 7.22 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 20 3.01 25 3.76 66 9.92 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 32 4.81 58 8.72 150 22.56 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 26 3.91 46 6.92 86 12.93 158 23.76 Above 6 years 19 2.86 32 4.81 105 15.79 156 23.46 Animator 1 0.15 15 2.26 114 17.14 130 19.55 Position in Representative 27 4.06 17 2.56 42 6.32 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 1 0.15 - - 23 3.46 24 3.61 Member 68 10.23 129 19.40 228 34.29 425 63.91 Total 97 14.59 161 24.21 407 61.20 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
As it is seen in the table, there are four hundred and seven women enterprises relied on both internal as well as external sources. One hundred and sixty one respondents depending on borrowing loan from banks. Only ninety seven women enterprises are running with their owned capital. Further two hundred and forty respondents assumed different positions in SHG as animator, representative and accountant. With regard to experience in membership, there are five hundred and fifty four respondents have gained experience for a period exceeding two years. For obtaining financial assistance and support, the group members have to approach the line officers. It was observed during the course of study that the line officers are not co-operative. This will hamper the development of women enterprises.
Arrangements may be made by the financial institutions for providing adequate financial assistance to SHGs strictly on the basis of their actual performance without any discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed, politic s and religion.
Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the Nature of capital employed the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in Table 5.2.9(a).
TABLE 5.2.9(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND NATURE OF CAPITAL EMPLOYED Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 6.99 6 0.322 Not Significant Position in SHG 83.52 6 0.000 Highly Significant Sources: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association is found between the position in SHG and Opinion about the Nature of capital employed.
AMOUNT OF LOAN FROM INTERNAL FUND
The main objective of SHGs is to generate savings and lend it to needy people. This helps to generate their own fund among the members and also lend the same at concessional rate to the group members. The details relating to disbursement of loan from internal fund are presented in Table 5.2.10.
TABLE 5.2.10 AMOUNT LOAN FROM INTERNAL FUND Amount of loan in Rs. Total Up to 3001 to 6001 to Above Demographic Variables 3000 6000 9,000 9000 F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 31 4.66 17 2.56 4 0.60 12 1.80 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 13 1.95 12 1.80 - - 12 1.80 37 5.56 Kilvelur 14 2.11 11 1.65 4 0.60 9 1.35 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 13 1.95 11 1.65 - - 12 1.80 36 5.41 Thalainayar 25 3.76 9 1.35 - - 8 1.20 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 26 3.91 26 3.91 2 0.30 20 3.01 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 36 5.41 20 3.01 1 0.15 23 3.46 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 33 4.96 27 4.06 2 0.30 29 4.36 91 13.68 Kuttalam 19 2.86 15 2.26 1 0.15 13 1.95 48 7.22 Sirkali 37 5.56 27 4.06 2 0.30 20 3.01 86 12.93 Kollidam 29 4.36 17 2.56 4 0.60 19 2.86 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 70 10.53 31 4.66 - - 10 1.50 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 117 17.59 75 11.28 7 1.05 41 6.17 240 36.09 Experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 54 8.12 42 6.32 - - 62 9.32 158 23.76 Above 6 years 35 5.26 44 6.62 13 1.95 64 9.62 156 23.46 Animator 54 8.12 41 6.17 7 1.05 28 4.21 130 19.55 Position in Representative 37 5.56 28 4.21 - - 21 3.16 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 7 1.05 8 1.20 - - 9 1.35 24 3.61 Member 178 26.77 115 17.29 13 1.95 119 17.89 425 63.91 Total 276 41.50 192 28.87 20 3.01 177 26.62 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
It is observed from Table 5.2.10 that one hundred and seventy seven
respondents borrowed loan exceeding Rs.9,000 from internal fund. Two
hundred and seventy six respondents availed financial accommodation ranged
between Rs.3,001 and Rs.6,000. SHGs advanced internal loan. The amount up to
Rs.3,000 availed by one hundred and ninety two respondents. The member-
borrower (two hundred and forty respondents) assumed different position in
SHGs as animator, representative and accountant. Further five hundred and fifty four of them gained more than three years of experience as members in SHG.
The study highlights the following important positive points. There has been an increase in the loan disbursed by the sample SHGs, productive loans are demanded rather than consumption loan by the members, there has been hundred percent recovery of loan given to members, the income of members increasing gradually and transaction costs has been reduced considerably. Further, in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the amount of loan from internal fund, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in Table 5.2.10a.
TABLE 5.2.10(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND LOAN FROM INTERNAL FUND Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 97.55 9 0.000 Highly Significant Position in SHG 10.86 9 0.285 Not Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of Membership experience and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the Membership experience and the amount of loan from internal fund.
AMOUNT OF LOAN AVAILED FROM BANK
NABARD has been making continuous efforts through its micro finance programmes for improving the access of rural poor to formal institutional credit. The SHG bank linkage programmes was introduced as a mechanism to provide the poor in rural areas, at their door steps easy and self managed access to formal institutional credit. The particulars pertaining to bank loan is given in Table 5.2.11.
TABLE 5.2.11 AMOUNT OF LOAN AVAILED FROM BANK Amount of bank loan in Rs. Total 5,001 to 10,001 to Above Demographic Variables Up to 5,000 10,000 15,000 15,000 F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 25 3.76 20 3.01 11 1.65 8 1.20 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 15 2.26 9 1.35 10 1.50 3 0.45 37 5.56 Kilvelur 10 1.50 12 1.80 10 1.50 6 0.90 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 14 2.11 7 1.05 13 1.95 2 0.30 36 5.41 Thalainayar 21 3.16 15 2.26 3 0.45 3 0.45 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 30 4.51 23 3.46 10 1.50 11 1.65 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 40 6.02 21 3.16 14 2.11 5 0.75 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 38 5.71 20 3.01 19 2.86 14 2.11 91 13.68 Kuttalam 14 2.11 12 1.80 13 1.95 9 1.35 48 7.22 Sirkali 37 5.56 25 3.76 16 2.41 8 1.20 86 12.93 Kollidam 27 4.06 25 3.76 10 1.50 7 1.05 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 17 2.56 35 5.26 52 7.82 7 1.05 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 133 20.00 61 9.17 33 4.96 13 1.95 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 81 12.18 28 4.21 44 6.62 5 0.75 158 23.76 Above 6 years 40 6.02 65 9.77 - - 51 7.67 156 23.46 Animator 54 8.12 35 5.26 31 4.66 10 1.50 130 19.55 Position in Representative 33 4.96 26 3.91 19 2.86 8 1.20 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 8 1.20 9 1.35 4 0.60 3 0.45 24 3.61 Member 176 26.47 119 17.89 75 11.28 55 8.27 425 63.91 Total 271 40.75 189 28.42 129 19.40 76 11.43 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
It is clear from the Table that seventy six respondents got loan above
Rs.15,000. On the other hand two hundred and seventy one respondents availed loan below Rs.5,000. The perceptible increase in number of SHGs and enormous growth of micro finance is a healthy way in the developing districts like Nagapattinam.
Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the amount of bank loan availed through SHG, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in
Table 5.2.11(a).
TABLE 5.2.11(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND AMOUNT OF BANK LOAN AVAILED Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 224.88 9 0.000 Highly Significant Position in SHG 6.65 9 0.674 Not Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 for the demographic variable of Membership experience and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the membership experience and amount of bank availed through SHG.
ADEQUACY OF AMOUNT OF LOAN FROM SHG
Finance is the life blood of any enterprise. Finance has to be available at the right time in right quantity. Availability of financial accommodation accelerates development of an enterprise, if an entrepreneur is not able to mobilize the required fund, the goal of the enterprise will not be accomplished.
The details relating to adequacy of Bank loan is given in Table 5.2.12.
TABLE 5.2.12 ADEQUACY OF AMOUNT OF LOAN FROM SHGs AND BANK Adequacy of amount of loan from Total SHG and Bank Demographic Variables Over Adequate Inadequate capitalized F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam 32 4.81 32 4.81 - - 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 19 2.86 16 2.41 2 0.30 37 5.56 Kilvelur 19 2.86 19 2.86 - - 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 17 2.56 19 2.86 - - 36 5.41 Thalainayar 18 2.71 24 3.61 - - 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 33 4.96 40 6.02 1 0.15 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 42 6.32 38 5.71 - - 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 38 5.71 53 7.97 - - 91 13.68 Kuttalam 22 3.31 26 3.91 - - 48 7.22 Sirkali 32 4.81 54 8.12 - - 86 12.93 Kollidam 30 4.51 39 5.86 - - 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 57 8.57 53 7.97 1 0.15 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 100 15.04 140 21.05 - - 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 72 10.83 85 12.78 1 0.15 158 23.76 Above 6 years 73 10.98 82 12.33 1 0.15 156 23.46 Animator 84 12.63 46 6.92 - - 130 19.55 Position in Representative 24 3.61 61 9.17 1 0.15 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 21 3.16 3 0.45 - - 24 3.61 Member 173 26.02 250 37.59 2 0.30 425 63.91 Total 302 45.41 360 54.14 3 0.45 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Table 5.2.12 highlights the adequacy of bank loan made available to sample respondents. Three hundred and sixty respondents expressed that the financial accommodation made available to them through bank are not adequate.
But three hundred and two of them opined that the bank loans are adequate. It is observed from the analysis that in most of the SHGs, the financial accommodation made available by the financial agencies concerned is not adequate to meet their actual requirements. The authorities are not giving adequate subsidy to meet even the labour cost requirements. The administrators and bankers need to infuse the confidence in the minds of members of SHGs.
Efforts should be made to avoid delay in sanctioning revolving fund and loan.
Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the adequacy of amount of loan from SHG and Bank, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in
Table 5.2.12(a).
TABLE 5.2.12(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND ADEQUACY OF LOAN Chi square Value df p Remark Membership experience 5.18 6 0.521 Not Significant Position in SHG 51.79 6 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association is found between the position in SHG and adequacy of amount of loan from SHG and Bank.
PROFITABILITY OF THE BUSINESS
Maximization of profit is the main objective of a business unit. The members of SHGs started their own enterprise with the help of financial assistance provided by banks. Here it is desired to identify the profitability of their enterprises. The responses received from them were tabulated in Table
5.2.13.
TABLE 5.2.13 PROFITABILITY OF THE BUSINESS OF SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Profitability position Total Demographic Variables High profit Average profit Low profit No profit F % F % F % F % F % Nagapattinam - - 41 6.17 20 3.01 3 0.45 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 2 0.30 28 4.21 7 1.05 - - 37 5.56 Kilvelur 2 0.30 27 4.06 9 1.35 - - 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 2 0.30 23 3.46 9 1.35 2 0.30 36 5.41 Thalainayar 2 0.30 30 4.51 10 1.50 - - 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam - - 52 7.82 22 3.31 - - 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 1 0.15 64 9.62 13 1.95 2 0.30 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 2 0.30 63 9.47 22 3.31 4 0.60 91 13.68 Kuttalam - - 36 5.41 11 1.65 1 0.15 48 7.22 Sirkali - - 58 8.72 21 3.16 7 1.05 86 12.93 Kollidam - - 48 7.22 19 2.86 2 0.30 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 1 0.15 91 13.68 17 2.56 2 0.30 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 2 0.30 165 24.81 65 9.77 8 1.20 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 5 0.75 108 16.24 39 5.86 6 0.90 158 23.76 Above 6 years 3 0.45 106 15.94 42 6.32 5 0.75 156 23.46 Animator - - 114 17.14 16 2.41 - - 130 19.55 Position in Representative - - 67 10.08 19 2.86 - - 86 12.93 SHG Accountant - - 24 3.61 - - - - 24 3.61 Member 11 1.65 265 39.85 128 19.25 21 3.16 425 63.91 Total 11 1.65 470 70.68 163 24.51 21 3.16 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Table 5.2.13 illustrates the profitability position of enterprises of sample respondents. Four hundred and seventy respondents expressed that they are in a position to earn average profit. One hundred and sixty three respondents opined that their profitability is very poor. The study reveals that these enterprises have succeeded in the economic betterment. But the basic objective of poverty eradication is yet to be accomplished. As the survival and growth of enterprises are very important, commercial efficacy should be accorded priority. Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the Profitability of their business, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in Table 5.2.13(a).
TABLE 5.2.13(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND THE PROFITABILITY OF BUSINESS Chi square Value df p Remark Name of Block 39.53 30 0.114 Not Significant Membership experience 11.75 9 0.228 Not Significant Position in SHG 50.55 9 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the position in SHG and Profitability of their business.
SOLVENCY POSITION OF BUSINESS
Solvency of an enterprise is essential for survival and growth. In this part, it is desired to know the solvency of sample respondents’ enterprises. The solvency position of respondents, enterprises is tabulated.
TABLE 5.2.14 SOLVENCY POSITION OF BUSINESS OF SAMPLE RESPONDENTS Liquidity position Total Equal More Less value value of Demographic Variables value of of assets assets and assets F % liabilities F % F % F % Nagapattinam 17 2.56 26 3.91 21 3.16 64 9.62 Thirumarugal 13 1.95 11 1.65 13 1.95 37 5.56 Kilvelur 12 1.80 14 2.11 12 1.80 38 5.71 Keelaiyur 10 1.50 13 1.95 13 1.95 36 5.41 Thalainayar 17 2.56 14 2.11 11 1.65 42 6.32 Name of the Vedharanyam 16 2.41 35 5.26 23 3.46 74 11.13 Block Mayiladuthurai 14 2.11 29 4.36 37 5.56 80 12.03 Sembanarkoil 27 4.06 40 6.02 24 3.61 91 13.68 Kuttalam 11 1.65 21 3.16 16 2.41 48 7.22 Sirkali 22 3.31 38 5.71 26 3.91 86 12.93 Kollidam 14 2.11 32 4.81 23 3.46 69 10.38 Up to 2 years 31 4.66 43 6.47 37 5.56 111 16.69 Membership 2 to 4 years 59 8.87 100 15.04 81 12.18 240 36.09 experience in SHG 4 to 6 years 54 8.12 59 8.87 45 6.77 158 23.76 Above 6 years 29 4.36 71 10.68 56 8.42 156 23.46 Animator 7 1.05 75 11.28 48 7.22 130 19.55 Position in Representative 19 2.86 32 4.81 35 5.26 86 12.93 SHG Accountant 23 3.46 - - 1 0.15 24 3.61 Member 124 18.65 166 24.96 135 20.30 425 63.91 Total 173 26.02 273 41.05 219 32.93 665 100.00 Source: Primary Data; F: Frequency
Table 5.2.14 projects the solvency in respect of enterprises of sample respondents. It is clear from the table that two hundred and nineteen respondents are solvent. It is also reported that the financial position of one hundred and seventy three respondents are sound. On the other hand, two hundred and seventy three respondents revealed that their financial position are unsound, the value of the assets held by them is not equal to the liabilities that are bound to pay.
Further in order to find the significant association between the select demographic variables and the solvency position of their business, the chi square test is used at 5 % level of significance and the results are given in Table
5.2.14(a).
TABLE 5.2.14(a) DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND SOLVENCY POSITION
Chi square Value df p Remark Name of Block 20.15 20 0.449 Not Significant Membership experience 10.57 6 0.103 Not Significant Position in SHG 96.13 6 0.000 Highly Significant Source: Computed data
It is noted from the above Table that the ‘p’ value is less than 0.01 only for the demographic variable of position in SHG and hence the result is highly significant. From the analysis it is concluded that there is highly significant association between the position in SHG and solvency position of their business.
ASSET CREATION OF THE SAMPLE WOMEN SHGs MEMBERS
The Asset holding of sample respondents in Nagapattinam district is presented in this section. The poor women would not be able to meet their basic requirements, because they do not have purchasing power. SHGs provide employment opportunities to women through income generating activities. SHG creates an asset and act of creation of asset, process of maintenance and operation of the asset help to generation of employment. An attempt is made to assess the impact of SHGs on the creation of assets. This section of the chapter highlights the asset creation of sample respondents during pre period and post period of membership in SHG. Further the assets created grouped into five viz. durable article, agricultural land, implement and live stock, business asset and investment.
DURABLE ASSETS CREATION
The durable articles are a significant factor for determining the living conditions of the people. The values of these articles reflect the economic condition of the members. The sample respondents have utensils, radio, T.V, watch, mixi, grinder, cell phone, bicycle, scooter and other assets. The value of durable articles before and after becoming the member of SHG is observed. Further in order to find the significant difference, paired‘t’ test procedure is used to compare Mean scores of Tow groups and the results are given in Table 5.3.1.
TABLE 5.3.1 MEAN SCORE REGARDING DURABLE ARTICLES – t TEST
Name of the assets Mean SD t p Before 9,567.82 14,043.22 Utensils 19.80 0.00 After 10,977.44 14,606.29 Before 419.40 1,061.79 Radio 13.12 0.00 After 650.90 1,287.71 Before 5,966.02 4,100.51 T.V. 16.06 0.00 After 8,020.00 3,595.26 Before 388.84 305.36 Watch 16.40 0.00 After 471.32 303.93 Before 1,699.40 1,450.76 Mixi 22.52 0.00 After 2,996.32 1,664.08 Before 3,145.11 2,162.05 Grinder 21.06 0.00 After 4,995.94 1,775.28 Before 1,651.28 1,445.75 Cell phone 17.56 0.00 After 2,986.62 1,368.85 Before 1,312.78 1,411.78 Bicycle 22.04 0.00 After 2,539.70 1,321.33 Before 1,642.86 8,318.53 Scooter 20.56 0.00 After 13,045.11 15,369.67 Before 268.57 798.96 Others 7.04 0.00 After 1,900.15 5,974.13 Source: Primary data
Null Hypothesis: H0: There is no significant difference between the mean scores of durable articles before and after joining SHG.
Articles wise distribution of Mean, Standard Deviation before joining SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score (9,567.82 14,043.22) was obtained for “Utensils” whereas, the Mean score (419.4 1,061.79) was obtained for
‘Radio’. The mean score on ‘TV’ was (5,966.02 4,100.51). The mean score on
‘Watch’ was (388.84 ± 305.36), the Mean score on ‘Mixi’ was (1,699.40 ± 1,450.76).
The Mean score on ‘Grinder’ was (3,145.11 ± 2,162.05), the Mean score on ‘Cell phone’ was (1,651.28 ± 1,445.75). The Mean score on ‘Bicycle’ was (1,312.78 ±
1,411.78). The Mean score on ‘Scooter’ was (1,642.86 ± 8,318.53) and the Mean score on ‘Other assets’ was (268.57 ± 798.96).
Articles wise distribution of Mean, Standard Deviation after joining SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score on ‘Utensils’ was (10,977.44
±14,606.29 ), the Mean score on ‘Radio’ was (650.90 ±1,287.71), the Mean score on
‘TV’ (8,020.00 ±3,595.26). The Mean score on ‘Watch’ was (471.32 ± 303.93) and the
Mean score on ‘Mixi’ was (2,996.32 ±1,664.08). The Mean score on ‘Grinder’ was
(4,995.94± 1,775.28), the Mean score on ‘Cell phone’ was (2,986.62 ± 1,368.85), the
Mean score on ‘Bicycle’ (2,539.70 ±1,321.33). The Mean score on ‘Scooter’ was
(13,045.11 ±15,369.67) and the Mean score on ‘Others assets’ was (1,900.15 ±
5,974.13).
The Table also shows that the‘t’ statistics, calculated as the ratio of the difference between sample means divided by the standard error of the difference. The column P value shows the probability value from the t distribution. Since the P value is less than 0.01 the hypothesis is rejected. Hence there is highly significant difference in the mean asset values after joining the SHG. Hence there is significant increase in the mean asset values regarding Utensils, Radio, T.V., Watch, Mixi, Grinder, Cell phone,
Bicycle, Scooter and other assets.
AGRICULTURAL LAND, IMPLEMENTS AND LIVE STOCK ASSETS CREATION
The Asset creation of the sample women SHGs Members with respect to value of Agricultural and live stock is analyzed regarding Own land, Leased land, Pump Set,
Oil engine, Bullock cart, Cow, Bullock, Goats, Poultry Birds and Other assets in this section. The value of agricultural land, implements and live stock have before and after becoming the member of SHG is observed and further in order to find the significant difference, paired ‘t’ test procedure is used to compares Mean scores of two groups.
Test for mean scores regarding agricultural and live stock was used and the results of the analysis are given in Table 5.3.2.
TABLE 5.3.2 MEAN SCORES REGARDING AGRICULTURAL LAND, IMPLEMENTS AND LIVE STOCK ASSETS – t TEST
Name of the assets Mean SD t p Before 43,518.80 79,546.59 Own land 1.48 0.140 After 44,293.23 81,259.08 Before 2,992.48 10,336.58 Leased land 10.48 0.00 After 13,863.16 29,822.53 Before 7,228.57 19,271.41 Pump Set 0.15 0.883 After 7,118.80 20,644.64 Before 382.53 1,460.82 Oil engine 6.50 0.00 After 1,090.36 3,198.46 Before 225.56 1,485.96 Bullock cart 6.49 0.00 After 902.26 3,693.58 Before 5,714.29 8,394.43 Cow 16.26 0.00 After 11,027.07 13,295.61 Before 0.00 0.00 Bullock 7.63 0.00 After 1,339.85 4,530.55 Before 922.11 2,204.19 Goats 12.07 0.00 After 1,728.72 2,973.96 Before 102.18 206.01 Poultry Birds 7.54 0.00 After 149.05 347.96 Before 119.92 507.84 Others 6.20 0.00 After 169.62 714.21 Source: Primary data
Null Hypothesis: H0: There is no significant difference between the Mean scores of agricultural land, implements and live stock assets before and after joining SHG.
Agricultural land, implements and live stock assets wise distribution of Mean,
Standard Deviation before joining SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score (43,518.80 79,546.59) was obtained for ‘Own land’ whereas, the Mean score
(2,992.48 10,336.58) was obtained for ‘Leased land’. The Mean score on ‘Pump Set’ was (7,228.57 19,271.41). The Mean scores on ‘Oil engine’ was (382.53± 1,460.82), the Mean score on ‘Bullock cart’ was (225.56± 1,485.96). The Mean score on ‘Cow’ was (5,714.29 ± 8,394.43), the Mean score on ‘Bullock’ was (0 ± 0), the Mean score on
‘Goats’ was (922.11± 2,204.19). The Mean score on ‘Poultry Birds’ was (102.18±
206.01) and the Mean scores on ‘Other assets’ was (119.92± 507.84).
Agricultural land, implements and live stock wise distribution of Mean,
Standard Deviation after becoming the member of SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score on ‘Own land’ was (44,293.23± 81,259.08 ), the Mean score on ‘Leased land’ was (13,863.16±29,822.53), the Mean score on ‘Pump Set’
(7,118.80±20,644.64). The Mean score on ‘Oil engine’ was (1,090.36± 3,198.46) and the Mean score on ‘Bullock cart’ was (902.26±3,693.58). The Mean score on ‘Cow’ was (11,027.07± 13,295.61), the Mean score on ‘Bullock’ was (1,339.85 ± 4,530.55), the Mean score on ‘Goats’ (1,728.72 ± 2,973.96). The Mean score on ‘Poultry Birds’ was (149.05±347.96) and the Mean score on ‘Other assets’ was (169.62± 714.21).
The Table also shows that the ‘t’ statistics calculated as the ratio of the difference between sample means divided by the standard error of the difference. The column P value shows the probability value from the t distribution. Since the P value is less than 0.01 the hypothesis is rejected. Hence there is highly significant difference in the Mean asset values after joining the SHG. Hence there is significant increase in the Mean asset values regarding Own land, Leased land, Pump Set, Oil engine, Bullock cart, Cow, Bullock, Goats, Poultry Birds and Other assets.
BUSINESS ASSETS CREATION
The Asset creation of the sample women SHGs’ Members with respect to value of Business assets is analyzed regarding Building, Machinery, Equipment., Furniture,
Vehicles and Other assets in this section. The value of Business and profession assets have before and after join the member of SHG is observed and further in order to find the significant difference paired ‘t’ test procedure is used to compare Mean scores of two groups.
Test for Mean scores regarding Business and profession assets were tested with and the results of the analysis are given in Table 5.3.3.
TABLE 5.3.3 MEAN SCORES REGARDING BUSINESS ASSETS – t TEST
Business assets Mean SD t p Before 33,965.41 143,349.46 Building 3.66 0.00 After 16,479.70 32,124.29 Before 2,297.74 7,013.44 Machinery 8.86 0.00 After 3,703.76 10,131.27 Before 2,103.76 2,892.18 Equipment 6.23 0.00 After 2,727.22 4,637.77 Before 771.43 1,739.23 Furniture 13.66 0.00 After 1,143.61 2,227.27 Before 2,682.71 4,968.28 Vehicles 9.40 0.00 After 5,827.07 11,568.49 Before 24.36 263.34 Others 3.49 0.00 After 53.23 454.55 Source: Primary data
Null Hypothesis: H0: There is no significant difference between the Mean scores of
Business and profession assets before and after joining SHG.
Business assets wise distribution of Mean, Standard Deviation before joining
SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score (33,965.41 143,349.46) is obtained for ‘Building’ whereas, the Mean score (2,297.74 7,013.44) was obtained for
‘Machinery’. The Mean score on ‘Equipment’ was (2,103.76 2,892.18). The Mean score on ‘Furniture’ was (771.43 ± 1,739.23), the Mean score on ‘Vehicles’ was
(2,682.71± 4,968.28) and the Mean score on ‘Other assets’ was (24.36 ± 263.34).
Business assets wise distribution of mean, Standard Deviation after joining
SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score on ‘Building’ was (16,479.70
± 32,124.29), the Mean score on ‘Machinery’ was (3,703.76±10,131.27), the Mean score on ‘Equipment’ (2,727.22±4,637.77). The Mean score on ‘Furniture’ was
(1,143.61± 2,227.27) and the Mean score on ‘Vehicles’ was (5,827.07±11,568.49) and the Mean score on ‘Other assets’ was (53.23±454.55).
The Table also shows that the t statistics calculated as the ratio of the difference between samples Means divided by the Standard error of the difference. The column P value shows the probability value from the t distribution. Since the P value is less than
0.01 the hypothesis is rejected. Hence there is highly significant difference in the Mean asset values after joining the SHG. Hence there is significant increase in the Mean asset values regarding Building, Machinery, Equipment, Furniture, Vehicles and Other assets.
INVESTMENT AND JEWELS ASSETS CREATION The Asset creation of the sample women SHGs’ Members with respect to value of Investment and jewels assets is analyzed regarding Post office, Bank, SHG, Chit
Fund, Jewels and Other assets in this section.
The value of investment and jewels assets have before and after join the member of SHG is observed and further in order to find the significant difference paired‘t’ test procedure is used to compares Mean scores of two groups. Test for Mean scores regarding investment and jewels assets were tested with and the results of the analysis are given in Table 5.3.4.
TABLE 5.3.4 MEAN SCORES REGARDING INVESTMENT AND JEWELS ASSETS – t TEST
Investment Mean SD t p Before 1,621.35 2,672.46 Post office 19.41 0.00 After 3,107.37 4,080.10 Before 1,539.02 3,091.88 Bank 13.08 0.00 After 4,891.13 7,131.39 Before 4.51 82.20 SHG 57.47 0.00 After 8,537.29 3,835.79 Before 2,745.86 13,804.36 Chit Fund 8.10 0.00 After 3,751.28 14,029.54 Before 20,590.98 21,739.59 Jewels 20.57 0.00 After 29,922.56 28,704.86 Before 113.38 452.79 Others 1.61 0.00 After 173.68 839.71 Source: Primary data
Null Hypothesis: H0: There is no significant difference between the Mean scores of investment and jewels assets before and after joining SHG.
Investment and jewels assets wise distribution of Mean, Standard Deviation before joining SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score (1,621.35
2,672.46) is obtained for ‘Post office’ whereas, the Mean score (1,539.02 3,091.88) was obtained for ‘Bank’. The Mean score on ‘SHG’ was (4.51 82.20). The Mean score on ‘Chit Fund’ was (2,745.86± 13,804.36), the Mean score on ‘Jewels’ was
(20,590.98± 21,739.59) and the Mean score on ‘Other assets’ was (113.38 ±452.79).
Investment and jewels assets wise distribution of Mean, Standard Deviation after joining SHG regarding asset creation shows that the Mean score on ‘Post office’ was (3,107.37 ±4,080.10), the Mean score on ‘Bank’ was (4,891.13±7,131.39), the
Mean score on ‘SHG’ (8,537.29 ± 3,835.79). The Mean score on ‘Chit Fund’ was
(3,751.28 ± 14,029.54) and the Mean score on ‘Jewels’ was (29,922.56 ± 28,704.86) and the Mean score on ‘Other assets’ was (173.68± 839.71).
The Table also shows, the t statistics, calculated as the ratio of the difference between sample means divided by the standard error of the difference. The column P value shows the probability value from the t distribution. Since the P value is less than
0.01 the hypothesis is rejected. Hence there is highly significant difference in the Mean asset values after joining the SHG. Hence there is significant increase in the Mean asset values regarding Post office, Bank, SHG, Chit Fund, Jewels and Other assets.
FAMILY MONTHLY INCOME, EXPENSES AND SAVINGS Income is one of the main indicators to measure the standard of living of members. The data regarding income, expenses and saving of beneficiaries was determined at two points of time i.e. pre and post SHG membership. The Family monthly income, expenses and savings of the sample women SHGs’ Members is analyzed before and after joining SHG in this section.
The Family monthly income, expenses and savings before and after joining as the member of SHG is observed and further in order to find the significant difference, paired t test procedure is used to compare Mean scores of two groups.
Test for Mean scores regarding Family monthly income, expenses and savings were tested and the results of the analysis are given in Table 5.3.5.
TABLE 5.3.5 MEAN SCORES REGARDING FAMILY MONTHLY INCOME, EXPENSES AND SAVINGS – t TEST
Family Monthly Mean SD t p Before 6,741.95 2,761.95 Income 38.34 0.00 After 9,278.20 3,410.99 Before 5,012.63 1,908.68 Expenses 30.78 0.00 After 6,666.02 2,538.65 Before 1,198.80 810.10 Savings 32.10 0.00 After 1,723.98 936.56 Source: Primary data
Null Hypothesis: H0: There is no significant difference between the Mean Family monthly income, expenses and savings before and after joining SHG.
The Mean, Standard Deviation regarding Family monthly income, before joining SHG shows (6,741.95 2,761.95) and after joining SHG was
(9,278.20 3,410.99). The Mean, Standard Deviation regarding family monthly expenses, before joining SHG shows that (5,012.63 1,908.68) and after joining SHG was (6,666.02 2,538.65). The Mean, Standard Deviation regarding Family monthly savings, before joining SHG shows that (1,198.80 810.10) and after joining SHG was
(1,723.98 936.56).
The Table also shows that the‘t’ statistics, calculated as the ratio of the difference between sample means divided by the standard error of the difference. The column P value shows the probability value from the‘t’ distribution. Since the P value is less than
0.01, the hypothesis was rejected. Hence there is highly significant difference in the
Mean family income, expenses and savings after joining the SHG. This clearly indicates that there is significant increase in the Mean Scores of family income, expenses and savings after joining SHG showing the Economic Empowerment of women SHGs members.
The economic condition of sample respondents is analysed in terms of skill formation though training, employment generation, entrepreneurial development and asset creation. After a deep analysis over the above mentioned aspects, the following findings were made during the course of analysis. Half of the sample respondents acquired skill through training. It is quiet interest to note that fifty percent of sample respondents who have underwent EDP have either commenced new ventures or engaged in their traditional business effectively. Each has employed more than ten employees. The possession of assets after becoming the member of SHG increased considerably.
CHAPTER - VI
SOCIAL CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS
OF WOMEN SHGs
CHAPTER - VI
SOCIAL CONDITIONS OF THE WOMEN SHGS MEMBERS
This chapter aims to highlight the social conditions of members of woman SHGs. One of the objectives of the study is to examine how far SHGs help in promoting social condition of their members. An attempt is made to analyse the living conditions which facilitate to know the status of members of women SHGs in Nagapattinam district. The status of woman in family, work place, living place, politics and woman voice against injustice were taken in to consideration in order to analyse the social condition of members of women
SHGs in the sample district.
STATUS IN THE FAMILY
In order to appraise the status of women in her family, the following factors were taken into consideration namely improved status of women, respect in the family, education of girl children, prevention of child labor, personal hygiene, nuclear (Small) family, family planning awareness, sanitation at low cost, kitchen garden, Joint decisions and contribution for satisfying family needs.
Table 6.1.1 illustrates the status of women in the family. Improved women status is the first factor for determining the status in the family. It is seen that thirty two respondents were opined that they assumed higher status in the family. On the other hand thirteen of them expressed their views that they had very low status in the family. Another four hundred and twenty three sample respondents expressed that they had low status in the family. Regarding respect in the family, thirty two sample respondents feel that they assumed very high respect in the family. Nineteen of them also said that they had high respect in their family, where as three hundred and nineteen respondents opined that they received no respect from their counter part. In regard to education to girl children, forty two respondents expressed their views that their girl children have facility for education. On the other hand, five hundred and seventy sample respondents opined that they did not have conducive atmosphere in the family for educating their children. Prevention of child labour is the next determinant factor for measuring status in the family. Three hundred and ninety sample respondents expressed that they avoid and prevent child labour. On the other hand, eighty four of them told that their family situation compelled them to send their children for work. Personal hygiene is one of the important factors for the development of mental and physical condition of women. In respect of this factor, three hundred and fifty seven respondents opined that they have no facility for improving personal hygiene, whereas no respondents say that they have high facility for maintaining their personal hygiene. Four hundred and seventy four sample respondents said that they did not have family planning awareness. Three hundred and sixty five respondents told that they incur no cost in regard to sanitation facility. Four hundred and twenty one of them said that they did not maintain kitchen garden. Six hundred and seven respondents expressed that they did not participate in taking family decisions. Five hundred and sixteen of them opined that they did not contribute for meeting their family needs.
It is obvious from the analysis that two- third of sample respondents did not have improved status in the family. Nearly half of them get no respect from the members of their family. More than three- fourth of them unable to give proper education to girl children. More than half of them have more pathetic condition to send their wards for employment. It is disheartening to observe that more than half of them have no proper sanitation facility. Nearly three-fourth of them did not have awareness about family planning. Nearly two-third of sample respondents have no facility for maintaining their kitchen garden. More than ninety percent of them felt that they were not consulted in the decision making process. More than three-fourth of the sample respondents did not make any contribution for meeting their family needs, this situation reveals that their income is inadequate even for their daily bread and butter. Thus, the analysis highlights the status of women in the family which is still in negative attitude.
TABLE 6.1.1 STATUS IN THE FAMILY
Very low Low Medium High Very High Mean Factors Total F % F % F % F % F % Rank Improved status of women 13 1.95 423 63.61 197 29.62 - - 32 4.81 665 6.10 Respect in the family 30 4.51 289 43.46 295 44.36 19 2.86 32 4.81 665 7.05 Education of girl children 221 33.23 349 52.48 53 7.97 7 1.05 35 5.26 665 4.45 Prevention of child Labour 14 2.11 70 10.53 191 28.72 221 33.23 169 25.41 665 9.33 Personal hygiene 42 6.32 315 47.37 223 33.53 85 12.78 - - 665 6.78 Nuclear family 98 14.74 241 36.24 179 26.92 101 15.19 46 6.92 665 6.61 Family planning awareness 265 39.85 209 31.43 189 28.42 1 0.15 1 0.15 665 4.88 Sanitation at low cost 209 31.43 156 23.46 103 15.49 136 20.45 61 9.17 665 6.28 Kitchen garden 233 35.04 196 29.47 143 21.50 75 11.28 18 2.71 665 5.52 Joint decisions 329 49.47 278 41.80 40 6.02 - - 18 2.71 665 3.67
Contribution for satisfying family needs 112 16.84 405 60.90 83 12.48 59 8.87 6 0.90 665 5.32 Source: Primary data; F- Frequency The SHG is a programme for the holistic development of rural women as human resources. It is, therefore, suggested that programmes aiming at providing services such as non formal education, personal hygiene, family planning awareness, joint succession, child care and nutrition should be dovetailed with SHG programme.
Multiple services must be provided to the members of the self help groups.
In this part of the chapter, efforts were drawn to measure the status of women in the family. For the purpose, qualitative information converted into quantitative by adopting five point scales. The average scores are obtained from the responses given by sample respondents on various factors which are influencing the status of women in the family. The factors that are determining the status are block, area, experience, position, age and marital status. These factors are independent variables and the status of women is dependent variable. ANOVA test is used to compare mean scores among different blocks. They are indicated in Table 6.1.2.
TABLE 6.1.2 BLOCK AND WOMEN STATUS
Range F Name of the Block Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Nagapattinam 18 38 27.19 4.62 49.43 Thirumarugal 18 38 26.76 4.39 48.65 Kilvelur 18 38 25.74 5.40 46.79 Keelaiyur 18 33 26.28 3.95 47.78 Thalainayar 18 38 26.69 5.85 48.53 1.18 0.304 Vedharanyam 18 38 24.97 4.69 45.41
Mayiladuthurai 18 38 26.48 4.25 48.14 Sembanarkoil 18 38 26.41 4.71 48.01 Kuttalam 18 38 25.71 4.53 46.74 Sirkali 18 38 25.94 4.41 47.17 Overall 18 38 26.19 4.67 47.62 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks.
The null hypothesis is accepted. ‘F’ value is 1.18, which is more than one.
Though ‘F’ value is more than one, it can not be said with 95% significance as the
‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.304). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks. Hence the status of woman in the family has no significant difference within the block and between blocks.
Area is an independent variable and women status is a dependent variable.
Here it is desired to determine the impact of area on women status. For this purpose
ANOVA test is used to compare mean scores of rural with that of urban. The results are indicated in Table 6.1.3.
TABLE 6.1.3 AREA AND WOMEN STATUS
Range F Area Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Rural 18 38 26.25 4.82 47.72 0.580 0.562 Urban 18 36 25.98 4.03 47.23
Overall 18 38 26.19 4.67 47.62 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no impact of area on women status
The null hypothesis is accepted. Since ’F’ value is less than one (0.580) and
‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.562). There is no significant difference between mean scores of rural and urban areas on woman status in the family.
Position in self-help group is an independent variable and women status in the family is a dependent variable. It is important to measure the influence of position on women status. In order to find out the difference among mean scores of position in
SHG, the ANOVA test has been applied. The results are given in Table 6.1.4.
TABLE 6.1.4 MEMBERSHIP POSITION AND WOMEN STATUS
Range F Position in SHG Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Animator 18 36 24.73 3.83 44.97 Representative 20 33 24.74 5.33 44.99 20.74 0.000 Accountant 22 26 22.17 0.82 40.30
Member 19 38 27.17 4.60 49.40 Overall 18 38 26.19 4.67 47.62 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no influence of position in SHG on woman status.
The null hypothesis is rejected, because ‘F’ statistics exceed one (20.74) and
‘P’ value is below 0.05 (0.000). There is significant difference among the mean scores of various positions of women in SHG. Thus it has been ascertained that the position occupied in SHG influenced woman status in the family.
It is believed that the period of experience in the membership of SHG will have impact on status of woman in her family. The status of woman is considered as dependant variable and the period of experience gained in the SHG is deemed as an independent variable. For the purpose of determining the impact of membership experience on woman status, ANOVA test procedure is followed and they are reflected in Table 6.1.5.
TABLE 6.1.5 MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE AND WOMEN STATUS
Range F Membership experience Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 2 years 18 38 25.77 4.51 46.86 3 to 4 years 18 38 25.90 4.59 47.10 1.29 0.276 5 to 6 years 18 38 26.55 4.40 48.27
Above 6 years 18 38 26.60 5.18 48.36 Overall 18 38 26.19 4.67 47.62 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant impact of membership experience on woman status.
Table 6.1.5 throws light on the value of ‘F’ statistics and ‘P’ value. The value of
‘F’ is greater than one (1.29) and ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 (0.276). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different period of membership experience of women in SHG. Hence the belief does not hold good and the null hypothesis is accepted. It is concluded that there is no significant impact on membership experience in SHG on the status of woman in her family.
In the ordinary course of life, age plays predominant role in the conduct of family affairs in olden days. Now-a-days how far age makes an influence in the status of woman in the family is considered to be tested. For which age is considered as the independent factor and woman status is the dependent variable. ANOVA test procedure is adopted for comparing mean scores among different age groups. The results are placed in Table 6.1.6.
TABLE 6.1.6 AGE AND WOMEN STATUS
Range F Age Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 25 26 33 27.85 2.18 50.64 26 to 35 20 30 25.77 2.85 46.85 1.95 0.120 36 to 45 18 38 26.30 6.21 47.83
Above 45 19 31 26.09 3.15 47.45 Overall 18 38 26.19 4.67 47.62 Source: Computed data
Ho: The age does not influence woman status.
Table 6.1.6 projects the difference among mean scores of different age groups.
Though ‘F’ statistics is higher than one (1.95), it can not be said with 95 % significant as the ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 ( 0.120). Hence the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no significant difference among mean scores in relation to various age groups. It is concluded that age does not influence woman status in the family.
It is the old belief, ‘a man’s birth completes when he takes a wife with him’.
Marriage gives status and respect to both man and woman. Here it is desired to test the influence of marital status on woman status. For which marital status is the independent factor and woman status is considered as the dependent factor. To compare the mean scores of various marital status, ANOVA test procedures are applied. The results are indicated in table 6.1.7.
TABLE 6.1.7 MARITAL STATUS AND WOMEN STATUS
Range F Marital Status Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Married 18 38 27.04 4.63 49.16 Un married 22 26 22.31 1.09 40.56 45.56 0.000 Widow 22 26 22.58 1.14 41.06
Divorced 18 29 18.79 2.94 34.16 Overall 18 38 26.19 4.67 47.62 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no marital influence on women status.
It is observed differences among mean scores of various marital statuses from
Table 6.1.7. ‘F’ statistics is grater than one (45.46) and ‘P’ value is lower than 0.05
(0.000). Hence null hypothesis is rejected. The marital status gives status to woman.
Here the old belief hold good i.e. marriage gives status to both man and woman. Thus it is concluded that marriage has influence on woman status in the family.
In order to ascertain the status of woman in the family, seven factors are considered important and they are taken up for testing hypotheses framed in this section of the study. ANOVA test has been adopted to prove the hypotheses. From the foregoing analysis that only two factors such as position and marital status of members in the self help group have impact on woman status in the family.
STATUS IN THE WORKING PLACE
It is imperative to look in to the working environment of SHG member.
The workplace must be capable of giving pleasure and pride to the workers and thereby desired success can be achieved. The factors such as unity established among workers, benefit enjoyed through SHG training, work opportunities through SHG, cordial relationship with co-members, willingness to share work burden and knowledge about safety methods are envisaged conducive environment in the work place. The position of these factors in the sample SHGs are appraised by soliciting information from six hundred and sixty five sample respondents. The opinions extended by them are given in Table 6.2.1.
The views of the respondents about the working environment are observed in
Table 6.2.1. It is clear that sixty eighty respondents were of the opinion that they established unity among the co-workers. On the other hand four hundred and ten of them expressed that the co-workers have not build unity among them and the level of unity is usually low and in times of crisis it was observed very low. The skill acquired through SHG training may give respect and status among co-workers. The views of respondents on this factor were analysed. It is observed that one hundred and sixty respondents are of the view that they have either high or very high status in the work place, whereas three hundred and ninety six respondents expressed that they have either low or very low status in their work place. TABLE 6.2.1 STATUS IN THE WORKING PLACE
Very Very low Low Medium High Mean Factors High Total Rank F % F % F % F % F % Unity established among workers 216 32.48 194 29.17 187 28.12 - - 68 10.23 665 3.17 Benefit enjoyed through SHG training 113 16.99 283 42.56 109 16.39 114 17.14 46 6.92 665 3.63
Work opportunities through SHG 36 5.41 244 36.69 215 32.33 138 20.75 32 4.81 665 4.14
Cordial relationship with co-members 105 15.79 136 20.45 287 43.16 91 13.68 46 6.92 665 4.10
Willingness to share work burden 97 14.59 417 62.71 86 12.93 20 3.01 45 6.77 665 3.09 knowledge about safety 219 32.93 245 36.84 107 16.09 58 8.72 36 5.41 665 2.87 methods The income earned through SHG creates good inter personal relationship among the members of SHG and thereby woman status in the work place assumed better position. Hundred and seventy respondents expressed their opinion in respect of their status in the work place was either high or very high. The reverse situation prevailed in respect of two hundred and eighty respondents.
Each and every member in the work place should have willingness to share the work burden. The members’ willingness to share wins the trust and confidence of their co-workers; this situation improves the status of women in the work place.
The Table highlights that only sixty five respondents have willingness to share the work burden. On the other hand five hundred and fourteen of them said that they observed either low or very low willingness among the members to share work burden. In regard to safety measures adopted in the work place only, ninety four respondents viewed that they have knowledge about safety measures in the work place. Two hundred and nineteen of them expressed that they have either low or very low level of knowledge about safety measures to be adopted in the work place. An appraisal over the factors revealed that the status of woman in the work place is not up to the satisfaction.
The analysis makes clear that two-third of them did not have unity among the members of SHGs. Half of the total respondents felt that they enjoy low benefit from
SHG training. Half of them also expressed that no work opportunity get through
SHGs. Three-fourth of the respondents do not have willingness to share work burden. Lastly two –third of them have no awareness about the safety measures in the woke place.
Women’s traditional roles in the society have strongly constrained their activities at home, in the work place and in the residential place. They have also been disadvantaged in their access to resources including food, transportation, education and financial resources. The problems and constraints experienced by woman have resulted in restricting and inhibited the performance of women in the work place. To solve these problems, it is imperative on the part of women to form themselves as SHG. It would be worthwhile to list here essential elements of group work.
Group work provides the scope to understanding the objectives of SHG and making commitment to the task of SHG. Group work is the most effective when leadership is shared. Group work requires a group to develop appropriate procedures for meeting particular problems and for decision making. Group works get success when the members have a strong sense of belonging. Group work requires the maximum utilizations of the potential talents of the individuals within the group.
In this part of the chapter, efforts were drawn to measure the status of women in the family. For is purpose qualitative information is converted into quantitative by adopting five point scale. The average score obtained from the responses given by sample respondents on various factors which are influencing the status of women in the work place are analysed. The factors that are determining the status are block, area, experience, position, age, and marital status. These factors are independent variables and the status of women at the working place is dependent variable.
ANOVA test is used to compare mean scares among different blocks. They are indicated in Table 6.2.2.
TABLE 6.2.2 BLOCK AND WOMEN STATUS AT THE WORKING PLACE
Range F Name of the Block Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Nagapattinam 7 26 15.44 4.33 51.46 Thirumarugal 8 26 15.70 3.88 52.34 Kilvelur 7 26 14.87 4.98 49.56 Keelaiyur 7 26 14.33 4.15 47.78 Thalainayar 7 26 14.86 5.33 49.52 0.63 0.770 Vedharanyam 7 26 14.14 4.46 47.12
Mayiladuthurai 7 26 14.25 4.52 47.50 Sembanarkoil 7 26 14.97 4.92 49.89 Kuttalam 7 26 14.94 5.16 49.79 Sirkali 7 26 14.73 4.77 49.11 Overall 7 26 14.78 4.67 49.25 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks.
The null hypothesis is accepted. ‘F’ value is 0.63, which is less than one and the ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.770). There is no significant difference among mean score of different blocks. Hence the status of woman at the work place has no significant difference within the block and between blocks.
Area is an independent variable and women status at the working place is a dependent variable. Here it is desired to determine the impact of area on women status. For this purpose ANOVA test is used to compare mean score of Rural with that of urban. The results are indicated in Table 6.2.3.
TABLE 6.2.3 AREA AND WOMEN STATUS AT THE WORKING PLACE
Range t Area Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Rural 7 26 15.00 4.93 50.00 2.241 0.025 Urban 7 26 13.93 3.72 46.45
Overall 7 26 14.78 4.67 49.25 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no impact of area on woman status at the working place.
The null hypothesis is rejected. Since ’F’ value is more than one (2.241) and
‘P’ value is less than 0.05 (0.025). There is highly significant difference between mean scores of rural and urban areas on woman status at the working place.
Position in self-help group is an independent variable and women status at the working place is a dependent variable. It is important to measure the influence of members’ position in SHGs on women status. In order to find the difference among mean scores of position in SHG, the ANOVA test has been applied. The results are given in Table 6.2.4.
TABLE 6.2.4 MEMBRSHIP POSITION AND WOMEN STATUS AT THE WORKING PLACE
Range F Position in SHG Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Animator 8 19 11.06 3.27 36.87 Representative 7 19 12.48 4.73 41.59 69.49 0.000 Accountant 13 18 13.21 1.02 44.03
Member 8 26 16.51 4.36 55.04 Overall 7 26 14.78 4.67 49.25 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no influence of position in SHG on woman status at the working place.
The null hypothesis is rejected, because ‘F’ statistics exceed one (69.49) and
‘P’ value is below 0.05 (0.000). There is significant difference among the mean scores of various positions of women in SHG. Thus it has been ascertained that the position occupied in SHG influence woman status at the working place.
It is believed that the period of experience in the membership of SHG will have impact on status of woman at the working place. The status of woman is considered as dependant variable and the period of experience gained in the SHG is deemed as an independent variable. For the purpose of determining the impact of membership experience on woman status ANOVA test procedure is followed and they are reflected in Table 6.2.5.
TABLE 6.2.5 MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE AND WOMEN STATUS AT THE WORKING PLACE
Range F Membership experience Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 2 years 9 19 12.59 4.11 41.96 3 to 4 years 8 26 15.70 6.09 52.33 1.31 0.271 5 to 6 years 7 24 13.87 4.98 46.24
Above 6 years 12 19 15.95 1.67 53.17 Overall 7 26 14.78 4.67 49.25 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant impact of membership experience on woman status at working place.
Table 6.2.5 throws light on the value of ‘F’ statistics and ‘P’ value. The value of
‘F’ is higher than one (1.31) and ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 (0.271). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different period of membership experience of women in SHG. Hence the null hypothesis is accepted. It is concluded that there is no significant impact on membership experience in SHG on the status of woman at the working place.
Age plays predominant role in the working place. Hence how far age makes an influence in the status of woman at the working place is considered to be tested. For which, age considered as the independent factor and woman status is the dependent variable. ANOVA test procedure is adopted to compare mean scores among different age groups. The results are placed in Table 6.2.6.
TABLE 6.2.6 AGE AND WOMEN STATUS AT THE WORKING PLACE
Range F Age Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 25 9 19 12.59 4.11 41.96 26 to 35 8 26 15.70 6.09 52.33 12.17 0.000 36 to 45 7 24 13.87 4.98 46.24
Above 45 12 19 15.95 1.67 53.17 Overall 7 26 14.78 4.67 49.25 Source: Computed data
Ho: The age does not influence woman status at the working place.
Table 6.2.6 projects the difference among mean scores of different age groups.
Though ‘F’ statistics is higher than one (12.17), it can not be said with 95% significant as the ‘P’ value is less than 0.05 (0.000). Hence the null hypothesis is rejected. There is significant difference among mean scores in relation to various age groups. It is concluded that age influence woman status at the working place. Marriage gives status and respect to both man and woman. Here it is desired to test the influence of marital status on woman status at the working place. For which, the marital status is the independent factor and woman status is considered as the dependent factor. To compare the mean scores of varied marital status, ANOVA test procedures are applied. The results are indicated in Table 6.2.7.
TABLE 6.2.7 MARITAL STATUS AND WOMEN STATUS AT THE WORKING PLACE
Range F Marital Status Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Married 7 26 15.11 5.03 50.38 Un married 12 19 12.54 1.90 41.79 11.63 0.000 Widow 13 18 14.49 1.15 48.29
Divorced 8 15 8.50 1.87 28.33 Overall 7 26 14.78 4.67 49.25 Source: Computed data
Ho: The marital status does not influence women status at the working place.
It is observed differences among mean scores of various marital status from
Table 6.2.7. ‘F’ statistics is grater than one (11.63) and ‘P’ value is lower than 0.05
(0.000). Hence null hypothesis is rejected. The marital status gives status to woman.
Here the old belief hold good i.e. marriage gives status to both man and woman. Thus it is concluded that marriage has influence on woman status at the work place.
In order to ascertain the status of woman at the working place, seven factors are considered and hypotheses framed. ANOVA test has been adopted to prove the hypo these. It is obvious from the foregoing analysis that there are four factors such as area, position in SHG, age and marital status of members in the self- help group have impact on woman status at the working place.
WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Participation of woman in social programmes made her to get status in the living place. Social programmes which are taken in to consideration for the purpose of analysis include participation in polio prevention programme, function celebrated in school, temple and family and celebration with neighbour. In this respect the views of respondents are solicited. The opinion of respondents in regard to woman status in living place is indicated in Table 6.3.1.
TABLE 6.3.1 WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Very low Low Medium High Very High Mean Factors Total F % F % F % F % F % Rank Participation in polio prevention 79 11.88 171 25.71 191 28.72 114 17.14 110 16.54 665 3.99 programme Participation in the school functions 139 20.90 197 29.62 225 33.83 79 11.88 25 3.76 665 3.27 Participation in the village/temple 205 30.83 230 34.59 205 30.83 25 3.76 - - 665 2.72 functions Participation in the family function of 275 41.35 283 42.56 37 5.56 26 3.91 44 6.62 665 2.43 co-members Celebration of festival with neighbor 319 47.97 173 26.02 41 6.17 132 19.85 - - 665 2.59 Source: Primary Data
Table 6.3.1 exhibits the opinion of sample respondents with regard their status in the living place. Two hundred and twenty four respondents expressed that they are actively participated in the polio prevention programme organised by health department. On the contrary two hundred and forty respondents expressed that they did not participate in such programme. One hundred and four respondents opined that they have participated in the function organised by schools. On the other hand three hundred and thirty six respondents expressed their views that they have not invited by schools for such programmes. Four hundred and thirty five sample respondents extended their views in respect of temple function celebrated by villagers that their participation is either low or very low. Though, Five hundred and fifty eight respondents have participated in the functions celebrated by their co-workers, the level of contribution was either low or very low.
In regard to celebration of festivals with neighbors, four hundred and forty two respondents opined that their level of participation in this respect was either low or very low. It is observed from the above analysis that the person who takes active participation in social programmes will occupy better status and respect in the living place.
It is evident from the above analysis that more than one-third of respondents expressed low or very low level of participation in the polio prevention programme, more than half of the respondents did not attend school function, more than two-third of them opined that their participation in the village or temple function was very low, four-fifth of them replied that they have not actively participated in the family function of co-members and three-fourth expressed that they do not celebrate function with their neighbour. The members of SHGs do not establish cordial relationship with the other members of SHG. It is the most prominent reasons for their low level participation in functions celebrated in their living place. If the members are capable of being participated in all functions celebrated in the villages, it will claim respect and status among the villagers. SHG members are needed to be inspired and motivated to play a greater dynamic role and thereby improve their active participation in various programmes. In this process, NGOs could act as facilitators and motivators.
In this part of the chapter, efforts were drawn to measure the status of women in living place. For the purpose, qualitative information converted into quantitative by adopting five point scale. The average score obtained from the responses given by sample respondents on various factors which are influencing the status of women in the living place. The factors that are determining the status are block, area, experience, position, age, and marital status. These factors are independent variables and the status of women in the living place is dependent variable. ANOVA test is used to compare mean scares among different blocks.
They are indicated in Table 6.3.2. TABLE 6.3.2 BLOCK AND WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Range F Name of the Block Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Nagapattinam 5 17 11.55 3.01 46.19 Thirumarugal 5 17 12.03 2.89 48.11 Kilvelur 5 17 11.13 3.51 44.53 Keelaiyur 5 17 11.56 2.76 46.22 Thalainayar 5 17 11.40 3.51 45.62 1.11 0.355 Vedharanyam 5 17 10.59 3.17 42.38
Mayiladuthurai 5 17 12.00 3.36 48.00 Sembanarkoil 5 17 11.51 3.09 46.02 Kuttalam 5 17 11.50 3.33 46.00 Sirkali 5 17 11.22 3.04 41.7 Overall 5 17 11.43 3.17 45.70 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks and women status in the living place
The null hypothesis is accepted. ‘F’ value is 1.11, which is more than one.
Though ‘F’ value is more than one, it can not be said with 95% significance as the
‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.355). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks. Hence the status of woman in the living place has no significant difference within the block and between blocks.
Area is an independent variable and women status in the living place is a dependent variable. Here it is desired to determine the impact of area on women status. For this purpose ANOVA test is used to compare mean score of Rural with that of urban. The results are indicated in Table 6.3.3.
TABLE 6.3.3 AREA AND WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Range t Area Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Rural 5 17 11.47 3.20 45.90 0.242 0.809 Urban 5 17 11.40 3.15 45.59
Overall 5 17 11.43 3.17 45.70 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no impact of area on woman status
The null hypothesis is accepted. Since ’F’ value is less than one (0.242) and
‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.809). There is no significant difference between mean scores of rural and urban areas on woman status in the living place.
Position in self-help group is an independent variable and women status in the living place is a dependent variable. It is important to measure the influence of position on women status. In order to find out the difference among mean scores of position is SHG, the ANOVA test has been applied. The results are given in
Table 6.3.4.
TABLE 6.3.4 MEMBERSHIP POSITION AND WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Range F Position in SHG Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Animator 5 15 9.51 2.70 38.03 Representative 6 16 9.23 2.63 36.93 58.80 0.000 Accountant 7 13 10.92 0.93 43.67
Member 5 17 12.54 2.99 50.16 Overall 5 17 11.43 3.17 45.70 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no influence of position in SHG on woman status in the living place.
The null hypothesis is rejected, because ‘F’ statistics exceed one (58.80) and ‘P’ value is below 0.05 (0.000). There is significant difference among the mean scores of various positions of women in SHG. Thus it has been ascertained that the position occupied in SHG influence woman status in the living place.
It is believed that the period of experience in the membership of SHG will have impact on status of woman in living place. The status of woman is considered as dependant variable and the period of experience gained in the SHG is deemed as an independent variable. For the purpose of determining the impact of membership experience on woman status, ANOVA test procedure is followed and they are reflected in Table 6.3.5.
TABLE 6.3.5 MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE AND WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Membership Range F Mean SD Mean % p experience Min. Max. Statistics Up to 2 years 5 17 10.91 3.28 43.64 3 to 4 years 5 17 11.40 3.01 45.62 1.72 0.162 5 to 6 years 5 17 11.72 3.06 46.89
Above 6 years 5 17 11.67 3.49 46.69 Overall 5 17 11.43 3.17 45.70 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant impact of membership experience on woman status in the living place.
Table 6.3.5 throws light on the value of ‘F’ statistics and ‘P’ value. The value of ‘F’ is higher than one (1.72) and ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 (0.162).
There is no significant difference among mean scores of different period of membership experience of women in SHG. Hence the belief does not hold good and the null hypothesis is accepted. It is concluded that there is no significant impact of membership experience in SHG on the status of woman in her living place.
In the ordinary course of life, age plays predominant role in the conduct of family affairs in olden days. Now-a-days how far age makes an influence in the status of woman in the living place is considered to be tested. For which age considered as the independent factor and woman status is the dependent variable.
ANOVA test procedure is adopted to compare mean scores among different age groups. The results are placed in Table 6.3.6.
TABLE 6.3.6 AGE AND WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Range F Age Mean SD Mean % p Min Max Statistics Up to 25 5 17 10.21 5.97 40.82 26 to 35 7 13 10.95 1.36 43.80 23.57 0.000 36 to 45 5 17 10.90 3.58 43.59
Above 45 9 16 13.07 2.26 52.29 Overall 5 17 11.43 3.17 45.70 Source: Computed data
Ho: The age does not influence woman status in the living place.
Table 6.3.6 projects the difference among mean scores of different age groups. ‘F’ statistics is higher than one (23.57), and the ‘P’ value is greater than
0.05 (0.000). Hence the null hypothesis is rejected. There is significant difference among mean scores in relation to various age groups. It is concluded that age influence woman status in the living place.
It is desired to test the influence of marital status on woman status. For which marital status is the independent factor and woman status in the living place is considered as the dependent factor. To compare the mean scores of varied marital status, ANOVA test procedures are applied. The results are indicated in table 6.3.7.
TABLE 6.3.7 MARITAL STATUS AND WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
Range F Marital Status Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Married 5 17 11.77 3.29 47.09 Unmarried 10 14 10.31 1.09 41.23 24.08 0.000 Widow 7 15 10.68 1.09 42.72
Divorced 5 9 5.29 1.07 21.14 Overall 5 17 11.43 3.17 45.70 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no marital influence on women status in living place.
From Table 6.3.7 it is learnt that there is differences among mean scores of various marital status. ‘F’ statistics is grater than one (24.08) and ‘P’ value is lower than 0.05 (0.000). Hence null hypothesis is rejected. The marital status gives status to woman. Marriage gives status to both man and woman. Thus it is concluded that marriage has influence on woman status in the living place.
In order to ascertain the status of woman in living place, seven factors are considered important and they are taken up for testing hypotheses framed in this section of the study. ANOVA test has been adopted to prove the hypotheses. It is obvious from the foregoing analysis that only three factors such as position, age and marital status of members in the self help group have impact on woman status in living place.
WOMEN STATUS IN POLITICS
A woman is said to be politically empowered when she has awareness and power to act based on right and rightful role in society and polity. In this part, an attempt has been made to assess the political status of women members of SHGs.
For the purpose, of assessing the status of woman in the politics, the significant factors such as political awareness, casting of vote, membership in political party, contesting in the election and participation in the meeting of gram sabha were taken in to consideration. The respondents’ views in this regard are given in Table
6.4.1.
TABLE 6.4.1 WOMEN STATUS IN POLITICS
Very low Low Medium High Very High Mean Factors Total Rank F % F % F % F % F %
Political Awareness 28 4.21 79 11.88 153 23.01 295 44.36 110 16.54 665 3.68
Casting of vote 28 4.21 31 4.66 106 15.94 304 45.71 196 29.47 665 4.08
Membership in Political Party 247 37.14 292 43.91 93 13.98 33 4.96 - - 665 1.78
Contesting in the election 97 14.59 98 14.74 68 10.23 327 49.17 75 11.28 665 3.01
Participating in Gram sabha meeting 130 19.55 239 35.94 68 10.23 214 32.18 14 2.11 665 3.96
Source: primary data;
As it is illustrate in Table 6.4.1, the SHGs enable the women to participate in political decision making at local level through their participation in village
Gram sabha and political activities. It is observed that four hundred and five sample respondents have expressed that they have high and very high level of political awareness. On the contrary, one hundred and seven of them opined that their level of awareness in respect of politics was either low or very low. It is heartening to note that five hundred respondents expressed their views on casting of votes in the election. They took active participation in casting their votes and thereby discharged their duty in respect of democracy. Low or very low level enrolment in the political party as members was noticed. Women have interest and encouraged by their peers to contest in the Panchayat elections. It is seen that four hundred and two respondents contested in the Panchayat election. Three hundred and sixty nine respondents did not attend the gram sabha meeting held in their villages.
It is obvious from the analysis that nearly three –fifth of them have high level of political awareness. The political awareness which the respondents have made them to cast their vote in the election. More than three-fourth of them casting their votes in the recent Panchayat election. Three-fifth of the respondents contested in the recent Panchayat election. Further two-third of them did not attend Gram sabha meeting held at their villages.
It is ascertained that SHG activity and group meetings have increased woman status in the politics to such an extent in eleven blocks in Nagapattinam district. Participation in the SHG activities lead to changed self image and enhanced access to information and skills, organizational and collective action, negotiation with the Government staff and development of net work with other institution in strengthening the individuality, self respect and political acumen.
In this part of the chapter, efforts were drawn to measure the status of women in politics. For the purpose qualitative information converted into quantitative by adopting five point scale. The average score obtained from the responses given by sample respondents on various factors, which are influencing women status in politics. The factors that are determining the status are block, area, experience, position, age, and marital status. These factors are independent variables and the women status in politics is dependent variable. ANOVA test is used to compare mean scores among different blocks. They are indicated in Table 6.4.2.
TABLE 6.4.2 BLOCK AND WOMAN STATUS IN POLITICS Range F Name of the Block Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Nagapattinam 5 21 15.48 3.53 61.94 Thirumarugal 5 21 15.49 3.65 61.95 Kilvelur 5 21 14.95 4.57 59.79 Keelaiyur 5 19 14.78 3.77 59.11 Thalainayar 5 21 15.48 4.34 61.90 0.56 0.834 Vedharanyam 5 21 14.42 3.98 57.68
Mayiladuthurai 5 21 15.38 4.19 61.50 Sembanarkoil 5 21 15.34 3.66 61.36 Kuttalam 5 21 15.54 3.89 62.17 Sirkali 5 21 15.07 3.77 60.28 Overall 5 21 15.18 3.90 60.73 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks and women status in politics.
The null hypothesis is accepted. ‘F’ value is 0.56, which is less than one and the ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.355). There is no significant difference among mean score of different blocks. Hence, the status of woman in politics has no significant difference within the block and between blocks.
Area is an independent variable and women status in politics is a dependent variable. Here, it is desired to determine the impact of area on women status. For this purpose ANOVA test is used to compare mean score of Rural with that of urban. The results are indicated in Table 6.4.3. TABLE 6.4.3 AREA AND WOMAN STATUS IN POLITICS Range F Mean SD Mean % p Area Min. Max. Statistics Rural 5 21 15.36 3.81 61.45 1.640 0.102 Urban 5 19 14.73 4.02 58.91
Overall 5 21 15.18 3.90 60.73 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no impact of area on woman status in politics.
The null hypothesis is accepted. Since ’F’ value is more than one (0.242) and ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.102). There is no significant difference between mean scores of rural and urban areas on woman status in politics.
Position in self-help group is an independent variable and women status in politics is a dependent variable. It is important to measure the influence of position on women status. In order to find out the difference among mean scores of position in SHG, the ANOVA test has been applied. The results are given in
Table 6.4.4. TABLE 6.4.4
POSITION IN SHG AND WOMAN STATUS IN POLITICS Range F Position in SHG Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Animator 5 19 11.78 4.85 47.14 Representative 10 19 14.56 2.01 58.23 68.40 0.000 Accountant 17 19 18.92 0.41 75.67
Member 7 21 16.24 3.13 64.95 Overall 5 21 15.18 3.90 60.73 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no influence of position in SHG on woman status in politics.
The null hypothesis is rejected, because ‘F’ statistics exceed one (68.40) and ‘P’ value is below 0.05 (0.000). There is significant difference among the mean scores of various positions of women in SHG. Thus, it has been ascertained that the position occupied in SHG influence woman status in politics.
It is believed that the period of experience in the membership of SHG will have impact on status of woman in politics. The status of woman is considered as dependant variable and the period of experience gained in the SHG is deemed as an independent variable. For the purpose, of determining the impact of membership experience on woman status in politics, ANOVA test procedure is followed and they are reflected in Table 6.4.5.
TABLE 6.4.5 MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE AND WOMAN STATUS IN POLITICS
Membership Range F Mean SD Mean % p experience Min. Max. Statistics Up to 2 years 5 21 14.49 4.13 57.95 3 to 4 years 5 21 15.44 3.61 61.75 1.75 0.156 5 to 6 years 5 21 15.36 3.71 61.44
Above 6 years 5 21 15.38 4.14 61.51 Overall 5 21 15.18 3.90 60.73 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no significant impact of membership experience on woman status in politics.
Table 6.3.5 throws light on the value of ‘F’ statistics and ‘P’ value. The value of ‘F’ is higher than one (1.75) and ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 (0.156). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different period of membership experience of women in SHG. Hence, the belief does not hold good and the null hypothesis is accepted. It is concluded that there is no significant impact on membership experience in SHG on the women status in politics.
In the ordinary course of life, age plays predominant role in the conduct of family affairs in olden days. Now-a-days how far age makes an influence on the status of woman in politics is considered to be tested. For which age considered as the independent factor and woman status is the dependent variable. ANOVA test procedure is adopted to compare mean scores among different age groups.
The results are placed in Table 6.4.6.
TABLE 6.4.6 AGE AND WOMAN STATUS IN POLITICS Range F Age Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 25 7 16 10.15 3.61 40.59 26 to 35 9 19 15.86 3.29 63.45 36.23 0.000 36 to 45 5 21 14.65 4.25 58.60
Above 45 10 19 16.64 2.44 66.55 Overall 5 21 15.18 3.90 60.73 Source: Computed data
Ho: The age does not influence woman status in politics.
Table 6.3.6 projects the difference among mean scores of different age groups. ‘F’ statistics is higher than one (36.23), the ‘P’ value is less than 0.05
(0.000). Hence, the null hypothesis is rejected. There is significant difference among mean scores in relation to various age groups. It is concluded that age influence woman status in politics.
It is desired to test the influence of marital status on woman status in politics.
The marital status is the independent factor and woman status in politics is considered as the dependent factor. To compare the mean scores of varied marital status, ANOVA test procedures are applied. The results are indicated in table
6.4.7...
TABLE 6.4.7 MARITAL STATUS AND WOMAN STATUS IN POLITICS Range F Marital Status Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Married 5 21 15.35 3.77 61.40 Unmarried 14 19 14.38 1.36 57.54 38.10 0.000 Widow 10 19 16.64 2.49 66.56
Divorced 5 14 5.64 2.41 22.57 Overall 5 21 15.18 3.90 60.73 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no marital influence on women status in politics.
It is observed differences among mean scores of various marital statuses from Table 6.4.7. ‘F’ statistics is grater than one (38.10) and ‘P’ value is lower than 0.05 (0.000). Hence null hypothesis is rejected. The marital status gives status to woman in politics. Here the old belief hold good i.e. marriage gives status to both man and woman. Thus, it is concluded that marriage has influence on woman status in politics.
In order to ascertain the status of woman in politics, seven factors are considered important. Hypotheses are framed in this section of the study.
ANOVA test has been adopted to prove the hypotheses. It is obvious from the foregoing analysis that only three factors such as position, age and marital status of members in the self-help group have impact on woman status in politics.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
A woman is said be personally developed, when she is in a position to develop self-reliance and self-esteem. The means of achieving personal development are literacy, self- reliance, communication skill, freedom of expression, freedom of action, ability to help, self esteem and no discrimination on caste and religion. In order to make an appraisal over the position of woman in personal development, these eight factors are considered more significant. The responses received from the respondents on these eight aspects are indicated in
Table 6.5.1.
It is seen from Table 6.5.1 that three hundred and ninety respondents expressed that they have high and very high freedom of expression in the meeting of SHG and also in any discussion. One hundred and forty seven respondents are of the opinion that they are highly helpful to their neighborus and one hundred and ninety seven of them felt that they have no discrimination on the grounds of caste and religion.
On the contrary, four hundred and thirty six respondents have either low or very low level of literacy. Three hundred and nineteen respondents opined that they are not self-reliant. Further, five hundred respondents have either low or very low level of communication skill. In regard to freedom of action, three hundred and fifty seven respondents have either low or very low level of freedom even to travel at night. It is also observed that four hundred and seventy four respondents felt that they possess either low or very low level of self esteem. TABLE 6.5.1 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Very low Low Medium High Very High Mean Factors Total F % F % F % F % F % Rank
Literacy 13 1.95 423 63.61 197 29.62 32 4.81 665 6.10
Self - reliance 30 4.51 289 43.46 295 44.36 19 2.86 32 4.81 665 7.05
Communication skill 221 33.23 349 52.48 53 7.97 7 1.05 35 5.26 665 4.45
Freedom Expression 14 2.11 70 10.53 191 28.72 221 33.23 169 25.41 665 9.33
Freedom of action 42 6.32 315 47.37 223 33.53 85 12.78 - - 665 6.78
Ability to help 98 14.74 241 36.24 179 26.92 101 15.19 46 6.92 665 6.61
Self esteem 265 39.85 209 31.43 189 28.42 1 0.15 1 0.15 665 4.29
Discrimination on caste and 209 31.43 156 23.46 103 15.49 136 20.45 61 9.17 665 6.28 religious Source: primary data
An eye over the analysis reveals:
Nearly two-third of them have either low or very low level of literacy.
More than four-fifth of them de not have communication skill.
Exceeding three-fifth of them have no freedom even to travel alone
even at night
More than three-fourth of them do not possess self-esteem.
Discrimination on the grounds of caste and religion was observed from
the opinion of more than half of the sample respondents.
Woman should be willing to take additional efforts to establish a mindset which is suitable for their overall development. It is a gradual and consistent process which needs the support and cooperation of many people who are related to her.
In this part of the chapter, efforts were drawn to measure personal development of women. For the purpose, qualitative information converted into quantitative by adopting five point scale. The average score obtained from the responses given by sample respondents on various factors which are influencing women personal development. The factors that are influencing development are block, area, experience, position, age, and marital status. These factors are independent variables and the women status in personal development is dependent variable. ANOVA test is used to compare mean scores among different blocks.
They are indicated in Table 6.5.2.
TABLE 6.5.2 BLOCK AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Range F Name of the Block Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Nagapattinam 9 29 19.92 5.12 49.80 Thirumarugal 9 29 20.32 4.83 50.81 Kilvelur 9 29 19.87 6.05 49.67 Keelaiyur 9 29 19.17 5.10 47.92 Thalainayar 9 28 19.14 5.93 47.86 0.49 0.880 Vedharanyam 9 29 19.64 5.37 49.09
Mayiladuthurai 9 29 20.36 6.23 50.91 Sembanarkoil 9 29 19.67 5.43 49.18 Kuttalam 9 29 20.50 5.68 51.25 Sirkali 9 29 19.12 5.30 47.79 Overall 9 29 19.76 5.51 49.40 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks and women in personal development.
The null hypothesis is accepted. ‘F’ value is 0.49, which is less than one and the ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.880). There is no significant difference among mean score of different blocks. Hence the individual development of woman has no significant difference with in the block and between blocks.
Area is an independent variable and women personal development is a dependent variable. Here it is desired to determine the impact of area on women status in personal development. For this purpose ANOVA test is used to compare mean score of rural with that of urban. The results are indicated in Table 6.5.3.
TABLE 6.5.3 AREA AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Range F Area Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Rural 9 29 19.81 5.49 49.52 0.076 0.939 Urban 9 29 19.85 5.73 49.63
Overall 9 29 19.76 5.51 49.40 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no impact of area on woman personal development.
The null hypothesis is accepted. Since ’F’ value is less than one (0.076) and
‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.939). There is no significant difference between mean scores of rural and urban areas on woman personal development.
Position in self-help group is an independent variable and women personal development is a dependent variable. It is important to measure the influence of position on women status. In order to find the difference among mean scores of position in SHG, the ANOVA test has been applied. The results are given in
Table 6.5.4.
TABLE 6.5.4
POSITION AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Range F Position in SHG Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Animator 10 24 14.68 3.27 36.71 Representative 11 29 15.63 3.93 39.07 274.99 0.000 Accountant 9 23 9.58 2.86 23.96
Member 15 29 22.81 3.81 57.03 Overall 9 29 19.76 5.51 49.40 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no influence of position in SHG on woman personal development.
The null hypothesis is rejected, because ‘F’ statistics exceed one (274.99) and ‘P’ value is below 0.05 (0.000). There is significant difference among the mean scores of various positions of women in SHG. Thus it has been ascertained that the position occupied in SHG influence personal development of woman.
It is believed that the period of experience in the membership of SHG will have impact on woman personal development. The status of woman is considered as dependant variable and the period of experience gained in the SHG is deemed as an independent variable. For the purpose of determining the impact of membership experience on woman personal development, ANOVA test procedure is followed and they are reflected in Table 6.5.5.
TABLE 6.5.5 MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE IN SHG AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Membership Range F Mean SD Mean % p experience Min. Max. Statistics Up to 2 years 9 29 18.83 5.39 47.07 3 to 4 years 9 29 19.78 5.71 49.45 1.74 0.157 5 to 6 years 9 29 20.33 5.17 50.82
Above 6 years 9 29 20.06 5.64 50.14 Overall 9 29 19.76 5.51 49.40 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant impact of membership experience on woman personal development.
Table 6.5.5 throws light on the value of ‘F’ statistics and ‘P’ value. The value of ‘F’ is higher than one (1.74) and ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 (0.157). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different period of membership experience of women in SHG. Hence the belief does not hold good and the null hypothesis is accepted. It is concluded that there is no significant impact on membership experience in SHG on the women personal development.
In the ordinary course of life, age plays predominant role in the conduct of family affairs in olden days. Now-a-days how far age makes an influence in the woman personal development is considered to be tested. For which age considered as the independent factor and woman status is the dependent variable.
ANOVA test procedure is adopted to compare mean scores among different age groups. The results are placed in Table 6.5.6. TABLE 6.5.6 AGE AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Range F Age Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 25 15 22 17.68 3.06 44.19 26 to 35 9 23 16.58 4.77 41.45 97.75 0.000 36 to 45 11 26 18.89 4.90 47.22 Above 45 16 29 24.63 4.18 61.58
Overall 9 29 19.76 5.51 49.40 Source: Computed data
Ho: The age does not influence woman personal development.
Table 6.5.6 projects the difference among mean scores of different age groups. ‘F’ statistics is higher than one (97.75) and the ‘P’ value is less than 0.05
(0.000). Hence the null hypothesis is rejected. There is significant difference among mean scores in relation to various age groups. It is concluded that age has influence woman personal development.
It is desired to test the influence of marital status on woman personal development. For which marital status is the independent factor and woman personal development is considered as the dependent factor. To compare the mean scores of varied marital status, ANOVA test procedures are applied. The results are indicated in table 6.5.7.
TABLE 6.5.7 MARITAL STATUS AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Range F Marital Status Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Married 10 29 20.13 5.11 50.32 Unmarried 16 21 16.38 1.36 40.96 9.72 0.000 Widow 9 28 19.83 8.26 49.58
Divorced 13 25 13.86 3.21 34.64 Overall 9 29 19.76 5.51 49.40 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no marital influence on women personal development.
It is observed differences among mean scores of various marital statuses from Table 6.5.7. ‘F’ statistics is greater than one (9.72) and ‘P’ value is lower than 0.05 (0.000). Hence null hypothesis is rejected. The marital status influence to develop woman. Here the old belief hold good i.e. marriage gives status to both man and woman. Thus it is concluded that marriage has influence on woman personal development.
In order to ascertain woman personal development, seven factors are considered important. Hypotheses framed in this section of the study. ANOVA test has been adopted to prove the hypotheses. It is obvious from the foregoing analysis that only three factors such as position, age and marital status of members in the self- help group have impact on personal development of woman.
WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE A woman is expected to acquire power in order to understand her rights and duty to perform her responsibilities towards one self and others in the most effective way. It gives the capacity to resist discrimination showed by the male dominated society. In order to assess the capacity of women in respect of raising her voice against injustice, six factors are indispensable. The factors which measure the woman’s concern against injustice are legal awareness, forced marriage, dowry, alcoholism, harassment and equal share in the property. The views expressed by sample respondents are given in Table 6.6.1.
It is noticed from Table 6.6.1., the voice raised by woman against injustice.
Four hundred and seventy one respondents raised their voice highly in respect of forced marriage. Three hundred and ninety two respondents expressed that they highly protested against dowry. On the other extreme, three hundred and twelve respondents have acquired very low level of legal knowledge. Two hundred and sixty seven of them protest at low level against alcoholism. Further, two hundred and ninety seven respondents raised their voice at a very low level against harassment of women. Finally, three hundred and seven of them do not know that they are entitled for equal share in the ancestral property.
TABLE 6.6.1 WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
VL L M H VH Mean Factors Total F % F % F % F % F % Rank Legal awareness 74 11.13 238 35.79 190 28.57 113 16.99 50 7.52 3.10 665 Forced Marriage 1 0.15 125 18.80 68 10.23 335 50.38 136 20.45 665 4.62 dowry 28 4.21 99 14.89 146 21.95 229 34.44 163 24.51 665 4.32 Alcoholism 148 22.26 119 17.89 208 31.28 99 14.89 91 13.68 665 3.29 Harassment 91 13.68 206 30.98 206 30.98 157 23.61 5 0.75 665 2.78 Equal share 169 25.41 138 20.75 164 24.66 162 24.36 32 4.81 665 2.90 Source: Primary data It has been ascertained from the analysis that two-third of them raised their voice at high level against forced marriage. More than half of them highly protest against dowry system. Further, it is observed that nearly half of the sample respondents have expressed that they did not raise their voice against alcoholism, harassment and to claim share in the ancestral property.
In this part of the chapter, efforts were drawn to measure the status of women in raising their voice against injustice. For the purpose, qualitative information converted into quantitative by adopting five point scale. The average score obtained from the responses given by sample respondents on various factors which are influencing women status to raise voice against injustice. The factors that are determining the status are block, area, experience, position, age, and marital status. These factors are independent variables and the women status to raise voice against injustice is dependent variable. ANOVA test is used to compare mean scores among different blocks. They are indicated in Table 6.6.2.
TABLE 6.6.2 BLOCK AND WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
Range F Name of the Block Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Nagapattinam 10 26 18.22 4.16 60.73 Thirumarugal 10 26 18.46 4.46 61.53 Kilvelur 10 26 18.37 5.20 61.23 Keelaiyur 10 26 17.58 3.81 58.61 Thalainayar 10 26 18.36 4.42 61.19 0.58 0.810 Vedharanyam 10 26 17.36 4.70 57.88
Mayiladuthurai 10 26 18.76 5.04 62.54 Sembanarkoil 10 26 18.12 4.16 60.40 Kuttalam 10 26 18.35 5.00 61.18 Sirkali 10 26 17.78 4.25 59.26 Overall 10 26 18.11 4.51 60.38 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant difference among mean scores of different blocks and women voice against injustice.
The null hypothesis is accepted. ‘F’ value is 0.58, which is less than one and the ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.810). There is no significant difference among mean score of different blocks. Hence the status of woman to raise voice against injustice has no significant difference within the block and between blocks.
Area is an independent variable and women voice against injustice is a dependent variable. Here it is desired to determine the impact of area on women status in raise voice against injustice. For this purpose ANOVA test is used to compare mean score of rural with that of urban. The results are indicated in Table
6.6.3.
TABLE 6.6.3 AREA AND WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
Range F Area Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Rural 10 26 18.16 4.52 60.53 0.057 0.955 Urban 10 26 18.13 4.68 60.44
Overall 10 26 18.11 4.51 60.38 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no impact of area on woman voice against injustice.
The null hypothesis is accepted. Since ’F’ value is less than one (0.057) and ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.955), there is no significant difference between mean scores of rural and urban areas on woman voice against injustice.
Position in self-help group is an independent variable and women status in raise voice against injustice is a dependent variable. It is important to measure the influence of position in SHGs on women voice. In order to find out the difference among mean scores of position in SHG, the ANOVA test has been applied. The results are given in Table 6.6.4.
TABLE 6.6.4 POSITION IN SHG AND WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
Range F Position in SHG Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Animator 10 22 15.21 3.70 50.69 Representative 11 26 16.40 2.90 54.65 38.45 0.000 Accountant 18 20 19.92 0.41 66.39
Member 11 26 19.31 4.66 64.37 Overall 10 26 18.11 4.51 60.38 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no influence of position in SHG on woman voice against injustice
The null hypothesis is rejected, because ‘F’ statistics exceed one (38.45) and ‘P’ value is below 0.05 (0.000). There is significant difference among the mean scores of various positions of women in SHG. Thus it has been ascertained that the position occupied in SHG influence woman status in raising voice against injustice.
It is believed that the period of experience in the membership of SHG will have impact on woman voice against injustice. The status of woman is considered as dependant variable and the period of experience gained in the SHG is deemed as an independent variable. For the purpose of determining the impact of membership experience on woman status to raise voice against injustice,
ANOVA test procedure is followed and they are reflected in Table 6.6.5.
TABLE 6.6.5 MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE IN SHG AND WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
Membership Range F Mean SD Mean % p experience Min. Max. Statistics Up to 2 years 10 26 17.16 4.41 57.21 3 to 4 years 10 26 18.47 4.42 61.56 2.29 0.077 5 to 6 years 10 26 18.15 4.38 60.49
Above 6 years 10 26 18.38 4.92 61.28 Overall 10 26 18.11 4.51 60.38 Source: Computed data
Ho: There is no significant impact of membership experience on woman status to raise voice against injustice.
Table 6.6.5 throws light on the value of ‘F’ statistics and ‘P’ value. The value of ‘F’ is higher than one (2.29) and ‘P’ value is greater than 0.05 (0.077). There is no significant difference among mean scores of different period of membership experience of women in SHG. Hence the belief does not hold good and the null hypothesis is accepted. It is concluded that there is no significant impact of membership experience in SHG on the women voice against injustice.
In the ordinary course of life, age plays predominant role in the conduct of family affairs in olden days. Now-a-days how far age makes an influence in the status of woman to raise voice against injustice is considered to be tested. For which age considered as the independent factor and woman status is the dependent variable. ANOVA test procedure is adopted to compare mean scores among different age groups. The results are placed in Table 6.6.6.
TABLE 6.6.6 AGE AND WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
Range F Age Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Up to 25 11 18 13.88 3.50 46.27 26 to 35 13 21 16.76 2.25 55.85 58.65 0.000 36 to 45 10 26 17.47 4.42 58.22
Above 45 11 26 21.34 4.70 71.12 Overall 10 26 18.11 4.51 60.38 Source: Computed data Ho: Age does not influence woman voice against injustice.
Table 6.6.6 projects the difference among mean scores of different age groups. Though ‘F’ statistics is higher than one (58.65), it can not be said with 95
% significant as the ‘P’ value is more than 0.05 (0.000). Hence the null hypothesis is rejected. There is significant difference among mean scores in relation to various age groups. It is concluded that age has influence on woman status to raise voice against injustice.
It is the old belief, a man’s birth completes when he takes a wife with him.
Marriage gives status and respect to both man and woman. Here it is desired to test the influence of marital status on woman status invoice against injustice.
Marital status is the independent factor and woman voice against injustice is considered as the dependent factor. To compare the mean scores of varied marital status, ANOVA test procedures are applied. The results are indicated in table
6.6.7.
TABLE 6.6.7 MARITAL STATUS AND WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
Range F Marital Status Mean SD Mean % p Min. Max. Statistics Married 10 26 17.98 4.34 59.94 Unmarried 16 25 16.69 2.45 55.64 29.65 0.000 Widow 14 26 21.44 4.53 71.48
Divorced 10 20 10.71 2.67 35.71 Overall 10 26 18.11 4.51 60.38 Source: Computed data Ho: There is no marital influence on women voice against injustice.
It is observed differences among mean scores of various marital statuses from Table 6.5.7. ‘F’ statistics is greater than one (29.65) and ‘P’ value is lower than 0.05 (0.000). Hence null hypothesis is rejected. The marital status gives status to woman to raise voice against injustice. Thus it is concluded that marriage has influence on woman status in raise voice against injustice.
In order to ascertain the woman voice against injustice, seven factors are considered important. Hypotheses framed in this section of the study. ANOVA test has been adopted to prove the hypotheses. It is obvious from the foregoing analysis that only three factors such as position, age and marital status of members in the self help group have impact on woman voice against injustice.
The status of women in family, work place, living place, politics and women voice against injustice were taken into consideration in order to analyse the social condition of members of women SHGs in the study area. The analysis reveals that the following facts. Majority of the sample respondents did not make any contribution for meeting their family needs and their income is inadequate for their daily bread and butter. Women have been disadvantaged in their access to resources and their traditional role in the society have strongly constrained their activities at work place. The members of SHGs do not establish cordial relationship with the other members and neighbors. SHG activities and group meetings have increased women status in the politics. Further they did not raise their voice against alcoholism, harassment and claim share in the ancestral property.
CHAPTER - VII
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND
SUGGESTIONS
CHAPTER - VII
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS
The study titled as “Socio – economic conditions of members of women self- help groups in Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu”. The study is undertaken with the aims of identifying the growth of women SHGs and bank linkage programme in Nagapattinam district, to analyse the performance of sample women SHGs in the study area, to examine the impact of SHGs on the economic conditions of members and to examine, how far women SHGs help in promoting social condition of members. Nagapattinam district comprises of eleven blocks.
Each block is designated as stratum. Proportionate stratified Random Sampling procedure was adopted to select sample self help groups and member respondents from all the eleven blocks in Nagapattinam district. The size of sample for SHGs is calculated with a margin of error at 1 percent level and 99 percent confidence level arrived as 378 SHGs and 665 members. Survey method has been adopted along with personal interview technique for the collection of primary data. Two interview schedules, well structured and pretested were administered for gathering of information from sample SHGs and member respondents. Further, secondary data were pooled from the office records of TNWDC at Nagapattinam and books and journals. The collected information were analysed and presented in tables. In order to strengthen the analysis, statistical tools like Standard
Deviation, Coefficient of variation, Average Annual Growth Rate, Linear
Growth rate, Compound Growth Rate, Chi-square test, Friedman test and ‘T’ test were used. The findings made during the course of study were given here under.
1. LOW NUMBER OF SHGs FORMATION
The study reveals average groups formed in the sample district over the period of study was 106. The study found that Sembanarkoil, Kollidam, Sirkali,
Mayiladuthurai and Vedharanyam blocks were kept their levels of formation higher than the district average. On the other hand, Nagapattinam, Thirumarugal block, Kilvelur block, Keelaiyur block, Thalainayar and Kuttalam blocks were kept their level of formation below the district average. It is also found that less awareness, poor status and illiteracy are major causes for the less number of groups formed in Nagapattinam district.
2. ENROLMENT OF MORE MEMBERS
The number of SHGs members registered a steady growth in respect of all the sample blocks during the study periods. The large number of members enrolled in eleven blocks of Nagapattinam district. The first place secured by
Sembanarkoil block and followed by Sirkali, Kollidam, Mayiladuthurai and
Vedharanyam blocks. The average membership registration in these blocks was
2788, 2314, 2271, 1866 and 1803 members respectively, which are higher than the average level of membership enrolment in the district (1609). It is observed that the awareness about the impact of women SHGs is more in these blocks; hence, a large number of women enrolled as members in SHGs for their socio- economic development.
3. MEAGRE SAVING
The revolving fund and bank loan are provided on the basis of savings.
Further internal lending also depends largely on the savings of the groups. Hence, saving plays a predominant role in the performance of self-help groups. But, the seasonal under employment, increase in cost of living and inadequate income are lead to small and tinny saving among the members of SHGs in Nagapattinam
District.
4. HUGE FUND ALLOCATED AND LOW LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION
It has been ascertained from the study that the average participants of SHGs in the training was 240 out of 1164 average SHGs formed in the sample district. It covered only one – fourth of the average SHGs formed in the sample district.
Moreover the average number of beneficiaries participated in the training was
2912 members out of 17667 average members of SHGs in the district. It is clear from the study that the participation of SHGs and their members is considered as very low. The matter of low level of attendance in the training programme is probed during the course of study. To attend the programme the members have to sacrifice their wages on the duration of training and they are not afforded to incur travelling expenses out of their own pocket. It is observed that TNWDC in Nagapattinam district has increased its fund allocation and its utilization for vocational training. Further it has been ascertained that the average participation in the vocational training was 178 out of
1164 average SHGs formed in the sample districts. It is covered only one-seventh of the average SHGs. Hence, majority of the SHGs are not getting vocational training in the sample district. Moreover the average beneficiaries of member of
SHGs in the vocational training was 1030 out of 17697 average member enrolled in the sample district. Hence, all the members of SHGs are not offered to get the same caliber and expertise through vocational training given by TNWDC in the sample district.
5. RAPID GROWTH OF RF LOAN (SGSY)
It has been seen from the study that the average number of women SHGs get loan under the scheme of SGSY revolving fund was 1139 groups, out of 1164 average number of SHGs formed in Nagapattinam district during the study periods. It indicates that a large number of SHGs are eligible to get the SGSY scheme loan in the districts. The most of the SHGs showed better performance and got first rating in order to avail SGSY- RF. A rapid growth is observed in respect of amount of loan.
6. SLOW GROWTH OF EA LOAN (SGSY)
The study has found that the average number of SHGs received loan from
SGSY- EA is 121, which is very low when compared to average number of SHGs formation in Nagapattinam district. It covered only one-tenth of the total number of SHGs, rest of the SHGs have not availed EA loan under the scheme in the sample district, because they have not achieved the desired performance for second rating by the TNWDC, NGOs and banks.
7. THIN TAHDCO AND NABARD LOAN
It has been found that the average number of SHGs received loans from
TAHDCO revolving fund is 53 groups which is very low while compared to average number of SHGs in Nagapattinam district. The amount of Revolving
Fund loan increased to Rs.60,000 from Rs.15,000 over the period of study. The amount is inadequate for members to invest in economic activities. It is also found that the average number of SHGs received loan under the scheme of
TAHDCO economic activities was 20. It indicates that the entire groups do not have the awareness about the TAHDCO Economic Activities loan.
It has been found that the average number of SHGs received loan under the scheme of NABARD direct financial assistance was 243 groups out of 1164
SHGs formed in the district. It covered only 21 percent of the SHGs formation and rest of them have not availed bank loan under the scheme of NABARD direct financial assistance.
8. TREMENDOUS PERFORMANCE
The formation and existence of SHGs are more in number as the rural women have more interest in forming and taking part in the activities of their groups and thereby they indent to develop economically and socially. It is probed that an optimum number of members needed for every SHGs to manage themselves is
15. It is considered as compact size for SHGs. A constant growth in saving satisfy internal lending and external borrowing, Group cohesiveness, understanding the personal and social problems and decision making are achieved by SHGs through the optimum size of membership in Nagapattinam district.
Majority of the sample SHGs have weekly meeting. It indicates the members’ active participation in their respective group for their development. It is ascertained that nearly one-half of the sample SHGs maintained their attendance above 90 percent The average level of members participation in SHGs meeting was observed in the study area. It is ascertained that majority of the SHGs (i.e., four-fifth) pooled their saving once in a month. It leads to low amount of internal fund among the sample SHGs. The members saving habit is a significant factor for determining the size of saving and internal lending among the members.
Further, the savings of the group is the borrowing power, which determines the external borrowing from bank. It is encouraging to notice that more than two- third of sample SHGs have proper maintenance of accounts.
9. NEGLIBLE INTERNAL LENDING
It has been found out from the study that nearly one- third of SHGs sanctioned only a negligible amount of loan (up to Rs.3,000) in a meeting. The practice of lower borrowing coupled with higher amount of saving is quiet encouraging and the SHGs and members are deserved to be appreciated. The study proved that the women in the rural areas have credit requirement only for short period. To satisfy the credit requirements of village people many private credit agencies have come forward but they used to charge exorbitant rate of interest. But SHG is a gift to the rural people to satisfy their financial needs at low rate of interest between one to four percent.
10. LOW DISBURSEMENT OF BANK LOAN
The study highlights on the financial assistance made available to SHGs.
There are three schemes viz. SGSY, TAHDCO and Direct linkage under
NABARD, under which SHGs are eligible to get financial assistance from Co- operative and Nationalised banks. It has been ascertained that Sembanarkoil bock assumed first in availing financial accommodation under these schemes and followed by other blocks. Keelaiyur block registered lowest number of SHGs financially benefited under these schemes. The Study also indicates that the majority of the sample SHGs was availed meager amount of loan from bank in the study area. It is probed that Keelaiyur block SHGs assumed first position availing huge amount of loan from bank and followed by other blocks. Further,
Thalainayar block has availed negligible amount of loan under various schemes.
It is ascertained that less than one-third of the sample SHGs disbursed the bank loan to their members above Rs.10,000. Further, more than two-third of them disbursed loan subject to a maximum of Rs.10,000. It indicates majority of the sample SHGs shared meagre amount of bank loan among the members. It is probed that majority of the sample SHGs of Keelaiyur and Kuttalam blocks have disbursed loan exceeding Rs.15,000 per member. Further, one-half of the sample
SHGs from Thalainayar and Mayiladuthurai disbursed a very low amount to their members up to Rs.5,000 only. Majority of the sample SHGs charged a higher rate of interest on bank loan disbursement. It has been ascertained that micro financing interests are higher which ranged about 24 percent per annam.
Inadequate loan to carry out economic activities, leads to diversion of loan for family expenses. Usually the loan is to be advanced for productive purposes.
When the loan is utilized for the purpose which will generate income, the income earned will be used to repay the loan.
11. MORE PARTICIPATION
It is seen from the study that more than eighty percent of the sample respondents are rural people, rest of them are urban people have created awareness among women both in social and economic aspects. It is ascertained that nearly one-half of them are young age married women from middle size family. It is slso ascertained that only 23 percent of the sample respondents have a long period of experience with SHGs in the study area.
This could be attributed to the reason that out of economic necessity of the family, married women join SHGs as members to avail the micro credit facility and also to involve in the entrepreneurial activities to augment their family income. More than three-fourth of the respondents belong to nuclear family and rest are in joint family. Want of independence and social and economic problems associated with joint family system might be the reasons for opting nuclear family. It is ascertained that majority of the respondents are Hindus. It is probed that majority of the sample respondents are SC/ST people. It is ascertained that more than one-half of the respondents have primary education. They are interested to participate in groups activities for economic developments in the sample district. It is noteworthy that women from all strata of the society, irrespective of caste, class or religion are coming together and form self help group. In real sense, women groups have initiated the process of social engineering.
12. PROMOTION OF SAVING HABIT
It is ascertained that more than one half of the sample respondents have become members for promoting saving habit and improving the level of saving through their surplus income. It indicates that SHGs have infused the minds of women and thereby inculcated the habit of thrift and savings among rural and urban poor women in Nagapattinam district.
13. IMPACT OF TRAINING
The study noted that five hundred and ten sample respondents underwent training. One hundred and twenty of them have commenced their new ventures. The new business that are undertaken by them includes toys making, candle, coir products, agar bathi, dry fish processing, pickles, fancy stores and soap making.
On the other hand, two hundred and eleven of them are engaged in their traditional business effectively such as paddy and vegetable cultivation, fish culture, shop, coconut leaf weaving, mini dairy and brick making. Seventy five of the trainees opined that they derived no benefit by attending the training programmes.
14. EMPLOYMENT GENERATION
In the part of employment generation, it is found that three hundred and eighty eight respondents employed up to five persons, one hundred and eighty one of them employed persons exceeding five and below ten. It is quite interesting that ninety six micro enterprises of them have more than ten employers. It is highly appreciable that the micro enterprises are following labour intensive techniques rather than mechanization.
15. DELAY IN DISBURSEMENT (RF LOAN)
It is observed from the study that in most of the SHGs, the financial accommodation made available by the financial agencies concerned is not adequate to meet their actual requirements. The authorities are not giving adequate subsidy to meet even the labour cost requirements.
16. UNSOUND FINANCIAL POSITION
The study reveals that these enterprises have succeeded in the economic betterment, but the basic objective of poverty eradication is yet to be accomplished. As the survival and growth of enterprises are very important, commercial efficacy should be accorded priority. It is also reported that the financial position of one hundred and seventy three respondents are sound. On the other hand two hundred and seventy three respondents revealed that their financial position unsound, the value of the assets held by them is not equal to the liabilities that are bound to pay.
17. INCREASE IN THE POSSESSION OF ASSETS
The study also reveals that there is significant increase in the mean sores of the various assets value regarding durable assets, agricultural land, implements, live stock, business assets, investments and jewels after joining in SHGs
18. WOMEN STATUS IN THE FAMILY
It is obvious from the study that two- third of sample respondents did not have improved status in the family. Nearly half of them get no respect from the members of their family. More than three-fourth of them unable to give proper education to girl children. More than half of them have pathetic condition to send their wards for employment. It is disheartening to observe that more than half of them have no proper sanitation facility. Nearly three-fourth of them did not have awareness about family planning. Nearly two-third of sample respondents have no facility for maintaining their kitchen garden. More than ninety percent of them felt that they were not consulted in the decision making process. More than three-fourth of the sample respondents did not make any contribution for meeting their family needs, this situation reveals that their income is inadequate for their daily bread and butter. Thus, the study highlights the status of women in the family, which is still in negative attitude.
19. WOMEN STATUS AT WORK PLACE
Women’s traditional roles in the society have strongly constrained their activities at home, in the work place and in the residential place. They have also been disadvantaged in their access to resources including food, transportation, education and financial recourse.
20. WOMEN STATUS IN LIVING PLACE
It is evident from the study that more than one-third of respondents expressed low or very low level of participation in the polio prevention programme, more than half of the respondents did not attend school function, more than two-third of them opined that their participation in the village or temple function was very low, four-fifth of them replied that they have not actively participated in the family function of co-members and three-fourth expressed that they do not celebrate function with their neighbors. The members of SHGs do not establish cordial relationship with the other members of SHG. It is the most prominent reasons for their low level participation in functions celebrate in their living place. If the members are capable of being participated in all functions celebrated in their villages, it will claim respect and status among the villagers.
21. WOMEN STATUS IN POLITICS
It is obvious from the study that nearly three –fifth of them have high level of political awareness. The political awareness which the respondents have made them to cast their vote in the election. More than three-fourth of them casting their votes in the recent Panchayat election. Three-fifth of the respondents contested in the recent Panchayat election. Further two-third of them did not attend Gram sabha meeting held at their villages. It is ascertained that SHG activity and group meetings have increased woman status in the politics to such an extent in eleven blocks of Nagapattinam district. Participation in the SHG activities lead to changed self image and enhanced access to information and skills, organizational and collective action, negotiation with the Government staff and development of net work with other institution in strengthening the individuality, self respect and political acumen.
22. WOMEN STATUS IN SELF DEVELOPMENT
An eye over the study reveals that nearly two-third of them have either low or very low level of literacy. More than four-fifth of them do not have communication skill. Exceeding three-fifth of them have no freedom to travel alone at night. More than three-fourth of them do not possess self-esteem.
Discrimination on the grounds of caste and religion was observed from the opinion of more than half of the sample respondents.
23. WOMEN VOICE AGAINST INJUSTICE
It has been ascertained from the study that two-third of them raised their voice at high level against forced marriage. More than half of them highly protest against dowry system. Further, it is observed that nearly half of the sample respondents have expressed that they did not raise their voice against alcoholism, harassment and claim share in the ancestral property
The growth of SHGs in the study area, performance of sample SHGs, socio- economic conditions of members of Women SHGs are important areas under which the study has been conducted. The study highlights the slow and steady growth of SHGs in the sample district. The performance of sample units deserves appreciation and encouragement. As far as economic condition, the members acquired skill through training; the participants of EDP have either commenced new ventures or effectively engaged in the traditional business. The assets possession during post period increased considerably. In the case of social condition, their status in family, work place and living place have not improved notably. They find difficult to raise their voice against alcoholism, harassment and share in the ancestral property. On the other hand, the SHG activities and meetings of SHGs have made them to increase their status in politics. Hence, the study concludes that the SHG movement in Nagapattinam district has achieved success. In spite of success women’s traditional roles in society have strongly constrained their socio-economic development. Women also have disadvantaged in their access to resources. The problems and constraints experienced by women have resulted in restricted and inhibited performance of women in SHGs.
SUGGESTIONS
Based on the finding made during the course of study, the following suggestions are made for further improvement in the performance of SHGs and also for the upliftment of women socially and economically.
1. The TNWDC and NGOs will have to create awareness and motivate the women in the rural folk to form themselves as SHG. For this purpose, they have to design programmes so as to make women to understand the concept of SHG and infuse the minds of rural women folk and thereby won their confidence.
2. The benefit of women SHGs like training, for self development, inculcate the habit of saving, loan facility, opportunity for entrepreneurial development and increase the income earning capacity are exposed through conducting large number of awareness programmes at every Panchayat by the TNWDC.
3. TWDC ltd and NGOs have to draw suitable programme to inculcate the habit of thrift and savings among members of SHGs. It is very significant that the programme to be chalked out to infuse the minds of rural women and thereby won their confidence. If the rural folk are aware of the importance of savings and have trust and confidence on the SHGs, they will be in a position to contribute their tiny and small amount as savings to their Groups. TWDC and NGOs are to encourage them to involve in income generating economic activities. To achieve this purpose micro enterprise at their place is to be established. Proper guidance and necessary training are to be provided by TNWDC and NGOs. In order to augment the amount of saving, the frequency of saving may be shifted from monthly to weekly. In regard to amount of savings from members must be
‘members choice based,’ which enable the members to deposit varied amount subject to a minimum amount fixed by the group to improve the skills of leaders and members of SHGs.
4. TNWDC and NGOs will have to conduct the SHGs training at every
Panchayat level, which will be convenient to attend by the members of SHGs at their local place. The Government and TNWDC will have to increase the amount of incentive to the participant from Rs.50 to Rs.100 each and the trained and experienced members of SHGs may be considered as resource persons for conducting training to other members.
5. The TNWDC and their registered NGOs will have to take necessary steps to increase the number of participants in EDP. For this purpose, members of women
SHGs are to be enlightened on the importance of EDP. The socio-economic condition of members will be increased through the programme. The participation of the training programme certainly have its impact on developing entrepreneurial skill, increasing employment opportunities, and generating income earning capacity. The members who have interest in starting micro enterprises are to be identified and they should be encouraged in participating
EDP.
6. The income generation is an integral part of women SHGs under the scheme of vocational training given to all the members of SHGs’. For that purpose, TNWDC and NGOs will have to conduct large number of short term vocational training programmes at every block. The practical oriented training programme must be conducted with professional expert from business and industrial site. State
Government has to arrange for marketing of products of SHGs, for which there is a need to conduct exhibition – cum – sale in educational institutions such as school and colleges. The main objective of vocational training is to improve the sources of livelihood of rural folk. The below poverty line families in the district would be identified and they would be helped to come out of poverty in five to seven years. Strong and sustainable livelihood sources would be created and the families would be helped to have access in various services including financial assistance, to enable them to get higher income. Continuous skill development programmes would improve their skills. Various linkages would be created and livelihood opportunities would provide to them.
7. The SGSY RF loan amount has been kept at fixed sum along with repayment schedules and monthly instalment is of convenience and is within the capacity of members. Since banks are enthused by the good repayment behaviour of SHGs and more funds are pumped by the banking sector. Many of the groups are beyond the stage of thrift and credit. These are given an opportunity to take up income generating activities.
8. The rating authorities will have to support and guide them to enrich the second rating for getting EA loan and also increase the size of amount of the loan for each group above Rs.10,00,000. It may be noted that each of the
SHGs members will have to borrow rupees one lakh from the respective SHG.
The higher amount of loans will help to develop economic activities of the
SHGs, thus improving the socio-economic condition of their members.
9. The study is recommended that the State Government has to take steps to increase the TAHDCO revolving fund loan amounting to Rs.2 lakhs from
Rs.60, 000. It may be noted that the sufficient flow of credit to the SHGs is a good sign because these loans play a vital role in promoting economic activities of SHGs and thus improving the socio-economic condition of their members.
10. The TNWDC and NGOs should motivate the SC/ST members through conducting extraordinary meeting at every Panchayat level, to expose the importance of the TAHDCO EA loan and also guide them to achieve the position regarding to get SHGs second rating. The TNWDC and NGOs with the help of
DIC are suggested suitable economic activities for women SHGs in each and every block. It will be enabling them to improve the economic conditions.
11. The external credit linkage under NABARD direct financial assistance is something quite creditable because, the members of women SHGs in
Nagapattinam district belong to poor families and in the absence of their membership of the SHGs they could not able to get any loans from NABARD.
Now these members can utilize such credit for starting new economic activities and also to meet their consumption and social needs. Hence, large number of women SHGs will have to avail such loan from bank with the help of TNWDC and NGOs.
12. SHG is functioning with the members through meeting. Ordinarily the matters handled in the meeting are members saving collection, internal and external lending and its recovery, discussion among the members for future development.
It is suggested that weekly meeting is considered ideal for discharging their routine works and plan for future development. Even though weekly meeting is advisable to SHGs, all the members attendance is must for SHGs performing well and taking decision for members’ development. It is suggested that the SHGs will have to conduct their meeting at evening time without affecting the working hours. The meeting agenda will be scheduled by animator and representative for conducting meeting at short duration. Moreover each and every member should be assigned a role in meeting such as training, attendance register maintenance, minutes writing, saving fund collection, loan recovery etc.
13. The members saving habit is a significant factor for determining the size of saving and internal lending among the members. Further the savings of the group is the borrowing power, which determines the external borrowing from bank. It is suggested that in order to increase the size of internal fund, the frequency of saving may be shifted to weekly. The weekly saving amount may be decided by the members based on their earning capacity.
14. It is suggested that in order to increase the size of saving, the amount of saving from members must be members choice based, which enable the members to deposit varied amount subject to a minimum amount fixed by the groups.
15. It is recommended that training should be provided to all SHGs in the district, for which training is to be conducted at Panchayat level and all groups have to be encouraged to undergo training. TNWDC and NGOs have to take steps to provide training to all SHGs in the sample district to enlighten them in the field of accounts and ensured proper maintenance of account in all SHGs in the district.
16. It is suggested that the SHGs will have to improve their performance for getting huge amount of bank credit in Nagapattinam districts. There is a need for the rate of interest to be reduced which ranges between 12% and 36% are charged by SHGs for bank loan. The best way to reduce the rate of interest, would be to encourage more MFIs because, the more competition will make them to innovate idea for the reduction of interest rates by means lowering the management cost.
17. It is suggested that SHG will have to be allowed to fix more than 3 instalments within the prescribed time. It will be easy for the borrower to make repayment without any difficulty, as equated instalment is small amount.
18. It is suggested that banks and lenders of SHGs jointly draw efforts to enlighted the members for proper utilisation of loan. For which, effective supervision over the utilisation of loan is made by bankers. The developmental agencies have to take efforts before initiating the training programme. This course of action would build competence which would be useful in the long run in terms of knowledge and skill utilization towards increased productivity and income.
19. Arrangements may be made by the financial institutions for providing adequate financial assistance to SHGs strictly on their actual performance without any discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed, politics, and regions. The perceptible increase in number of SHGs and enormous growth of micro finance is a healthy way in the developing districts like Nagapattinam.
20. Involvement of NGOs would facilitate infusion of better development orientation to SHGs in the sample district. The State Government needs to encourage NGOs by way of aid to welfare and development activities of them.
21. In the sample district, there are plenty of available resources. Information about available materials and their varied uses should be disseminated to SHGs.
Proper encouragement and training should be given to them to make innovative products by using these available materials. In order to acquire knowledge, training programme should be conducted at Panchayat level under the auspices of local bodies.
22. Identifying the right members from SHGs to offer training is essential to develop the capacity effectively and also income generating capacity. The developmental agencies have to take efforts before initiating the training programme. This course of action would build competence which would be useful in the long run in terms of knowledge and skill utilization towards increased productivity and income.
23. Developing micro entrepreneurship with organizational and community based support is one way of strengthening inclusive growth. Capacity building among micro enterprises needs to be done through training and technical assistance in co-ordination with promotional agencies specializing in training and technical assistance.
24. The sample district has been endowed with rich and natural and human resources which need proper utilization by adopting modern technology for growth and development of the district economically. Hence, micro entrepreneurship is essential for proper use of renewable and non-renewable natural resources and to provide employment to the unemployed youths. Many women entrepreneurs in the sample area are playing a vital role in this direction through creation of utilities and generation of employment.
25. Arrangements may be made by the financial institutions for providing adequate financial assistance to SHGs strictly on the basis of their actual performance without any discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed, politics and religion.
26. The SHG is a programme for the holistic development of rural women as human resources. It is, therefore, suggested that programmes aiming at providing services such as non formal education, personal hygiene, family planning awareness, joint succession, child care and nutrition should be dovetailed with SHG programme. Multiple services must be provided to the members of the self help groups.
27. Women’s traditional roles in the society have strongly constrained their activities at home, in the work place and in the residential place. They have also been disadvantaged in their access to resources including food, transportation, education and financial resources. The problems and constraints experienced by woman have resulted in restricting and inhibited the performance of women in the work place. To solve these problems, it is imperative on the part of women to form themselves as SHG. It would be worthwhile to list here essential elements of group work.
Group work provides the scope to understanding the objectives of SHG and making commitment to the task of SHG. Group work is the most effective when leadership is shared. Group work requires a group to develop appropriate procedures for meeting particular problems and for decision making. Group works get success when the members have a strong sense of belonging. Group work requires the maximum utilizations of the potential talents of the individuals within the group.
28. SHG members are needed to be inspired and motivated to play a greater dynamic role and thereby improve their active participation in various programmes. In this process, NGOs could act as facilitators and motivators.
29. Participation in the SHG activities lead to changed self image and enhanced access to information and skills, organizational and collective action, negotiation with the Government staff and development of net work with other institution in strengthening the individuality, self respect and political acumen.
Woman should be willing to take additional efforts to establish a mindset which is suitable for their overall development. It is a gradual and consistent process which needs the support and cooperation of many people who are related to her.
Further Research The present study examines the socio-economic condition of women
SHG’s in Nagapattinam District. It provides scope for further researches in the following areas viz., Government support for SHGs, micro women entrepreneurs, development of sociopreneurs through SHGs, politics, SHGs and community development, contribution of SHGs to the growth of rural and semi-urban areas, etc.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
BIBLOGRAPHY
LIST OF BOOKS
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2. Aswathi Indira Rural Women of India – A Socio-economic Profile of Jummu Women, B.R. Publishing Corporation Delhi – 1982
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4. Batra, S.L, Employment for Women, Har-Anand Publication, 1990
5. Desai, Neera Women in Modern India, Vora and Company, Bombay, 1974
6. Dubey, S.C. India’s Changing Village, Cornell University Press London, 1958
7. Vijayakumari, M. Empowerment of Women and institutional credit, Sonali publications New Delhi.
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10. Heredero, J.M. Rural development and social change, Manohar, Book Service, New Delhi 1971
11. Jones, R.L. and The Himalayan women, Mayfield, Palo Alto1976 Jonews S.K.
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13. Khan, M.A. and Status of rural Women in India, Uppal Publishing Ayesha .N House, New Delhi, 1982
14. Kreah, D. Crutehfield, R.S Individual in society - Text Book of Social and Ballachey Psychology, MC Graw – Hill Inc. Loandon.
15. Krishnaiah, P. Growth and Development of Self help Groups in Dynamics of sustainable Rural Development, - Serials Publications, New Delhi 2003
16. Kulkarni, D. Vijay Empowerment of women through Self-help Groups, Janata, 2001
17. Lassey, W.R. Planning in Rural Environments MC raw – Hill, New York.
18. Manohar, K.M. Socio-economic status of Indian Women, Seema Publications, Delhi 1983
19. Marriet, M. Village India, Asis Publishing House, New Delhi, 1955
20. Mehta, S.R. Rural Development Policies and Programmes, Sage Publication, New Delhi, 1984
21. Mehtab Giri, Women’s Education: National Policies and Development, APH Publishing Corporation New Delhi, 2000
22. Menon, M.I. Status of Muslim women in India, Uppal Publishing House, New Delhi, 2002
23. Murdock, G.P. Social Status, Macmillan, New York, 1949
24. Nagayya, D. Micro Finance of Self Help Groups, serials publications New Delhi, 2002
25. Ramanjaneyulu Economic Empowerment of women in India, Annul Publications, New Delhi, 2006
26. Saty Sunadaram, I. Role of voluntary Agencies in Rural Development, Serials Publications, New Delhi, 2002
LIST OF PERIODICALS
No. Name of the Periodicals Name of the Publishers
1. South Asian Journal of Socio-Political - SAJOSPS, Jaya’s Nest M.G. Road, Studies. Adoor, Karalla India,
2. Intensive Agriculture - Ministry of Food and Agriculture, New Delhi
3. Kurukshetra - A Journal on rural Development Ministry of Rural Development, New Delhi- 11
4. Journal of Development Economics - The Economic Research Institute of Chung –Ang. University, Korea
5. Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics - Indian Society of agricultural Economics
6. Indian Journal of Social Work - Tata Institute of social Work
7. Indian Journal of Social welfare - Balack well publishing ltd.
8. Indian Journal of Management - Educational Research Multimedia & Publication, S.N. 21 Plot No.24, Malagaon Nasik Ms India 423 203
9. Indian Journal of Marketing - IJMKTG , Y-21, Hauz Khas, Delhi, 110 016
10. Mutram - S.Chinnappan Mutram society TNWDC ltd. 100 Anna Salai, Guindy, Chennai – 600 032
11. Southern Economist - Southern Economist S-13, Akarshan Bhawan, New Delhi -110 003
Dailies
1. The Economic times - Mumbai
2. The Financial Express - Mumbai
WEBSITES
1. www. india. com self help groups
2. www. tamil nadu. com self help groups
3. www. Tnwdc. com
4. www. tahdco. com
5. www. andhra pradesh. com self help groups
GUIDELINES AND REPORTS
1. Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation Ltd. Staff Training Centre, Chennai.
2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) banking with the poor, financing Self-help Groups, Hyderabad.
3. Annual reports 2011 of TNWDC – Nagapattinam.
APPENDICES
PERFORMANCE OF WOMEN SELF HELP GROUPS (QUESTIONNER)
1. Name of the SHG: ------2. Area: (a) Rural (b) Urban 3. Name of the Block: ------4. Age of the SHG’s (a) Up to 2 years (b) 3 to 4 years (c) 5 to 6 years (d) above 6 years
5. Formation of the SHG’s (a) By its Members (b) By bank (c) By NGO (d) By Government Agency
6. Size of the groups (a) Up to 15 members (b) 16 to 17 members (c) 18 to 20 members (d) Above 20 members
7. Meeting (a) Weekly (b) 15 days once (c) Monthly (d) occasionally
8. Attendance at meeting (a) Up to 50 % (b) 51 % to 75 % (c) 76 % to 90 % (d) Above 90 %
9. Frequency of the Saving (a) Weekly (b) 10 days once (c) 15 days once (d) Monthly
10. Amount of Saving (per Meeting) (a) Rs. 50 (b) Rs.51 to Rs. 75 (c) Rs.76 to Rs. 100 (d) Above Rs100
11. Total Amount of Saving by SHG (in years)
(a) (b) (c) (d) No. Period Up to Rs.50,000 50,001 to 1,00,000 1,00,001– 1,50,000 More then 1,50,000
11 (i.) Up to 2 years 11 (ii) Up to 4 years 11 (iii) Up to 6 years 11 (iv) More then 6ys.
12. Number of training attended by the SHG
No. Training (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) No. No. No. More then 3 No. Train, Train. 1 Train. 2 Train. 3 Train. Nil 12(i) Animator 12(ii) Representatives 12(iii) Members 12(iv) EDP 12(vi) Others
Internal Lending from Group saving amount
13. Number of member availed internal loan per meeting (a) 2 members (b) 3 members (c) 4 members (d) more then 4 members
14. Amount of internal loan allowed per member (a) Up to Rs.3,000 (b) Rs. 3,001 to 6,000 (c) Rs. 6,001 to 9,000 (d) More then Rs.9,000
15. Period of internal loan availed by the members (a) 1 month (b) 2 months (c) 3 months (d) more then 3 months
16. Interest on internal loan (Rate of interest per month) (a) 1 % (b) 2 % (c) 3 % (d) more then 3 %
17. Number of installment allowed to its members for internal loan (a) One (b) two (c) three (d) more then three
18. Re-payment of the internal loan by the members.
(a) Paid before the due date (b) paid on the due date (b) paid after the due date (d) No prompt re-payment
19. Purpose of loan / Utilization of the internal loan by the members (a) Family expenditures (b) Agriculture and live stock expenditures (c) Business expenditures (d) Other expenditures ………...
External Lending from Banks
20. Your SHG’s saving amount deposited, at what nature of banks?
(a) Public sector commercial banks (b) Private sector commercial banks (c) Co-operative banks
21. Name of the Bank for saving amount deposited ------
22. SHG’s member external loan received through (channel) (a) Members –> Bank Directly (b) Members –> SHG -> Bank (c) Members – >SHG –> NGO –> Bank (d) Member –> NGO –> Bank
23. Scheme of the external loan received from bank (a) SGSY-Reloving Fund (b) SGSY- Economic Activity (C) THDHCO –Reloving Fund (d) THDHCO- Economic Activity (e) Direct linkage under NABARD (f) Others
24. Amount of external loan received from bank (a) Rs. 25,000 (b) Rs. 25001 to 50,000 (c) Rs. 50,001 to Rs.1,00,000 (d) Above Rs. 1,00,000
25. Utilisation of external loan (a) SHG’s common business (b) member’s private purposes/ business
26. Number of members allowed to availing external loan (from SHG/ Bank) (a) Up to 5 members (b) 6- 10 members (c) 11 -15 (d) All the members
27. Amount of loan allowed to a member from external loan (a) up to Rs.5,000 (b) Rs. 5,001 to 10,000 (c) Rs. 10,001 to 15,000 (d) more then Rs. 15,000
28. Purpose of external loan / Utilization of external loan by the members
(a) Family expenditures (b) Agriculture and live stock expenditures (c) Business expenditures (d) Other expenditures ………...
29. Rate of interest on external bank loan to its members (per month) (b) 1 % (b) 2 % (c) 3 % (d) more then 3 %
30. Number of installment allowed to members for pr-payment of external bank loan (a) One installment (b) Two installments (c) Three installments (d) More then three installments
31. Period of external loan availed by the members (a) 1 month (b) 2 months (c) 3 months (d) more then 3 months
32. The re-payment passion of the external loan by the members.
(a) Paid before the due date (b) paid on the due date (b) paid after the due date (d) No prompt re-payment
SHG’s book and records maintenance
33. SHG’s book and records maintained by (a) Newly literate member (b) Upper class member (c) Animator / Other elected member (d) Outside person
34. Performance of books and records maintenance (a) Very good (b) good (c) poor (d) very poor 35. SHG’s member’s subscription per month (a) Up to Rs. 5 (b) Rs.6 to Rs.10 (c) Rs.11 to Rs.15 (d) Above Rs. 15
36. If problem rose, it solved by (a) Animators and Representative (b) Aged members of the group (b) NGO (d) Outside Members/ persons
37. List out the problems meet by the SHG
QUESTIONNER
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF WOMEN SHGs
1. Name of the Respondent: ______2. Name of the SHG: ______
3. Name of the Block: ______4. Area: (a) Rural (b) Urban
5. Years of membership experience in SHG
(a) Up to 2 years (b) 3 to 4 years (c) 5 to 6 years (d) Above 6 years
6. Your position in SHG (a) Animator (b) Representative (c) Accountant (d) Member
7. Age: (a) Up to 25 (b) 26 to 35 (c) 36 to 45 (d) Above 45
8. Marital status: (a) Married (b) Unmarried (c) widow (d) Divorced
9. Nature of the family: (a) Joint (b) Nuclear
10. Size of the family: (a) Up to 3 Members (b) 4 - 5 Members (c) 5 - 6 Members (d) Above 6 Members
11. Nature of the House occupied: (a) Concrete Roof (b) ………… (c) Asbestos set (d) Hut
12. Status of the residential House: (a) Own (b) Joint ownership (c) Rental (d) Leasing
13. Religion: (a) Hindu (b) Muslim (c) christen (d) Other- ______
14. Caste / community: (a) OC (b) BC (c) MBC (c) S C/S T (d) Others
15. Literacy: (a) Illiterate (b) Primary (c) Secondary (d) Above Secondary (e) Other______
16. Who influence you to join in SHG?
(a) NGO (b) Animator (c) Neighbors and Friends (d) Other______
17. Reasons for joining in SHG
(a) For getting loan (b) For promoting savings habit (c) For social status (d) For other reasons
18. How Many training programme attended
(a) 3 (b) 4-6 (c) 7- 9 (d) Above 9
19. Number of Training programme attended in each of the following. No. 19. i. SHG ( Member, A &R, Books maintenance, and Banking Operation) [ ] 19. ii. EDP (Many Business idea) [ ]
19. iii. Vocation (Single Business idea) [ ] 19. iv. Marketing [ ] 19. v. Other______[ ]
20. Opinion about the training programme attended.
(a) Most useful (b) Useful (c) Increase the confidence (d) Not useful
21. Impact on Training Programme attended.
(a) Doing New Business and Profession (b) Doing traditional Business and Profession effectively (c) No benefited (d) Other opinion ______
22. Name of the Business/ Profession doing ______
23. Nature of the Business / Profession doing
(a) Production (b) Assembling (c) making (d) Service (e) Others………
24. Age of your Business / Profession (a) 1 – 2 Years (b) 3 – 4 Y ears (c) 5 – 6 Years (d) Above 6 Years
25. Number of Manpower used in your Business / profession (Employment generation) (a) With in 5 employees (b) 5 to 10 employees (c) 10 to 15 employees (d) Above 15 employees
26. Sources of man power used in your business / profession.
(a) Family members only (b) Out side person only (c) Family and out side person
27. Nature of capital employed in your business / profession.
(a) Owned capital (b) Borrowed capital (c) Mixed capital
28. What is the amount of loan from SHG’s saving fund? (a) Up to Rs. 3,000 (b) Rs.3,001 to Rs.6,000 (c) Rs.6,001 to Rs.9,000 (d) Above Rs. 9000
29. In which scheme, you availed loan from bank through SHG? : (a) SGSY- Revolving Fund (b) SGSY-Economic Activities (c) TAHDCO- Revolving Fund (d) TAHDCO- Economic Activities (e) NABARD Direct bank Linkage (f) Others______
30. What is the amount of bank availed through SHG? (a) Up to Rs.5,000 (b) Rs.5,001 to Rs.10,000 (c) Rs.10,001 to Rs.15,000 (d) Above Rs. 15,000
31. Is the amount of loan from SHG and Bank enough for your Business / profession? (a) Adequate (b) In adequate (c) Over capitalized
32. What is the Profitability of your business/ profession? (a) High profit (b) Average profit (c) low profit (d) No profit
33. What is the liquidity passion of your business / profession? (a) More value of assets and less value of liabilities (b) Less value of assets and more value of liabilities (c) Assets and liabilities values are equal
Asset creation of the sample women SHG’s Members
34. How much value of durable articles you have before and after join the member of SHG
S. Name of the durable 34 (i) 34 (ii) No. assets Before joining in SHG After joining in SHG Amount in Rs. Amount in Rs. 1. Utensils 2. Radio 3. T.V. 4. Watch 5. Maxi 6. Grinder 7. Cell phone 8. Bicycle 9. Scooter 10. Others
35. How much value of Agricultural and live stock assets you have before and after join the member of SHG
S. Name of the 35 (i) 35 (ii) No. Agricultural and Before joining in SHG After joining in SHG live stock assets Amount in Rs. Amount in Rs. 1. Own land 2. Leased land 3. Pump set 4. Oil engine 5. Bullock cart 6. Cow 7. Bullock 8. Goats 9. Poultry Birds 10 Others
36. How much value of business and profession assets you have before and after join the member of SHG
S. Name of the 36 (i) 36 (ii) No. Business and Before joining in SHG After joining in SHG profession assets Amount in Rs. Amount in Rs. 1. Building 2. Machinery 3. Equipment 4. Furniture 5. Vehicles 6. Others
37. How much value of investment and jewels assets you have before and after join the member of SHG
S. 37 (i) 37 (ii) No. Name Investment Before joining in SHG After joining in SHG and jewels Amount in Rs. Amount in Rs. 1. Post office 2. Bank 3. SHG s4. Chit Fund 5. Jewels 6. Others
38. How much of your family monthly income before join in the member of SHG? Rs.______
39. How much of your family monthly income after join in the member of SHG? Rs.______
40. How much of your family monthly expenditure before join in the member of SHG? Rs.______
41. How much of your family monthly expenditure after join in the member of SHG? Rs.______
42. How much of your monthly savings before join in the member of SHG? Rs.______
43. How much of your monthly savings after join in the member of SHG? Rs.______
SOCIAL CONDITIONS OF MEMBERS OF WOMEN SHGs
1. Social status in family:
S. Factors Very high High Medium Low Very low NO. (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) 1.1 Increases the status of women 1.2 Respectful treatment among the family members 1.3 Education of girl children 1.4 Prevent the child Labour 1.5 Personal hygiene 1.6 Small family 1.7 Awareness about the family planning 1.8 Low cost of sanitation 1.9 Kitchen garden Management 1.10 Joint decisions on purchase of household assets and investments.
1.11 Contribution towards meeting the family needs.
2. Social status at the working place:
S. Factors Very high High Medium Low Very low No. (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) 2.1 Strength and unity among the co- workers 2.2 Usefulness of SHGs training 2.3 Work / wage opportunities through SHGs 2.4 Working with co-member of SHGs 2.5 Sharing of work burden among co- workers. 2.6 Awareness /Knowledge about the safety methods in work place
3. Social status in living place
S. Very High High Medium Low Very No. Factors (a) (b) (c ) (d) low (e) 4.1 Involvement in the pulse polio programme launched by the health department 4.2 Participation in the school functions. 4.3 Participation in the village/temple functions. 4.4 Participation in the family function of co-members. 4.5 Celebration of festival with neighbor
4. Social status in political
S. Very High High Medium Low Very No. Factors (a) (b) (c ) (d) low (e)
5.1 To take part in the political process Like election to Panchayat Raj 5.2 Participation in election campaigning. 5.3 Utilize the opportunity to contest in elections 5.4 Participation in the Grama Shaba meeting 5.5 Solving the village problem like drinking water and street light.
5. Social status in individual development:
S. Very High High Medium Low Very No. (a) (b) (c ) (d) low Factors (e)
6.1 Level of literacy 6.2 Awareness of self reliance 6.3 Improve your communication skill 6.4 Express your own opinion in a meeting / in a discussion 6.5 Travel alone even at night 6.6 Comes out to help neighbor 6.7 Contact with bank and other institution for your development 6.8 Live without caste and religion based difference.
6. Social status in raises voice against injustice:
S. Very High High Medium Low Very No. Factors (a) (b) (c ) (d) low (e)
7.1 Knowledge about the law to protect and defend women 7.2 Stop the young age and forced marriage. 7.3 Evils of dowry 7.4 Evils of alcoholism 7.5 Protect wife beating by husbands. 7.6 Knowledge about gender equality and equal rights of ancestor property