An Impact Assessment of Self-Help Groups on Socio-Economic Development and the Achievement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) Among Women in Chengalpattu District of Tamil Nadu

This research explores the significant effects of self-help groups (SHGs) on the socioeconomic progress of females in the Chengalpattu District of Tamil Nadu, as well as their role in contributing to the attainment of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs). The study investigated how Self-Help Groups (SHGs) influence women by concentrating on various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including eradicating poverty (SDG 1), ending hunger (SDG 2), ensuring good health and well-being (SDG 3), providing quality education (SDG 4), and promoting gender equality (SDG 5). In response to this issue, it is essential to conduct a Prevalence study and a comparative assessment carried out to assess the impact on women’s socio-economic conditions and awareness levels before and after joining SHGs supported by women entrepreneurs. A total of four hundred SHG participants successfully filled out the questionnaire survey form. The study found that women’s involvement in SHGs led to a significant enhancement in their socioeconomic status and awareness, as reflected in the mean scores and supported by t-test findings. The key elements that contributed to women’s socioeconomic progress were their membership in SHGs and involvement in microcredit programs, thereby helping to achieve SDGs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.