Introduction A 'self-governed, peer controlled voluntary Ass of people with similar S-E background who aspire to improve their living stds & address their common problems' Origin—ROSCA (Rotating Savings & Credit Association)—> Gained momentum after 1992 ( SHG Bank Linkage Project) Importance of SHGs Poverty alleviation & Rural Development — Financial inclusion-- Facilitates access to credit & Micro Finance to poors + SHGs members act as "Banking Correspondent" (Bank Sakhi prog) Provide L ivelihood (By vocational training, skill development)-- Improved living standards Promotes savings & investments Promotes Entrepreneurship— self-employment through setting of micro-enterprise Awareness generation + Efficacy in implementation of Govt schemes DAY-NRLM, MGNREGA Social Audits Many +ve externalities ↑ literacy, Nutrition-- Operates PDS shops (MH) ↑ Maternal & Child health-- By implementing ICDS & MDM Better health care, family planning V...