International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Fazian Sof, Syed Shafat Kubrevi and Quadri Javeed Ahmad Peer

abstract
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as a transformative force for women’s empowerment in rural India, particularly in marginalized regions. This study examines the socio-economic characteristics of 140 women members of SHGs in District Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir. Using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests of independence and a simple logistic regression, the analysis considers age, education, marital status, landholding, family structure, income, access to information, social participation, and training exposure. Findings show that most members are middle-aged, reside in joint families, and fall within a medium-income bracket, while facing constraints such as marginal landholdings, low social participation, and limited training. Statistical tests indicate no strong block-level differences for most variables, although education and income show borderline heterogeneity across blocks. The paper concludes with policy-relevant recommendations to strengthen SHG effectiveness.