Vol. 7, Issue 7, Part G (2025)

The present study entitled “Comparative Analysis of Empowerment between SHG Members and Non-members in Bhandara District of Maharashtra State” was undertaken to compare the empowerment levels of rural women who are members of Self Help Groups (SHGs) with those who are non-members. The study was conducted in Bhandara district of Maharashtra, covering three purposively selected tahsils: Bhandara, Sakoli, and Lakhani. A total of 120 respondents were selected, comprising 60 SHG members and 60 non-members. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analysed using mean, standard deviation, and z-test to compare the empowerment dimensions between the two groups. The findings revealed that SHG members had significantly higher levels of empowerment compared to non-members across various dimensions. Specifically, 51.67 percent of SHG members were found to be highly empowered, whereas 80.00 percent of non-members belonged to the medium empowerment category. SHG members showed higher psychological, cultural, social, and economic empowerment levels, while political empowerment remained low in both groups. The z-test analysis indicated significant differences between members and non-members in their overall empowerment status. The study concludes that membership in SHGs plays a vital role in enhancing the empowerment of rural women by improving their confidence, decision-making ability, social participation, and economic status. It is recommended that promotion of SHG formation, capacity building, and financial literacy programmes should be strengthened to empower more rural women and achieve inclusive rural development.