Women Representation and Empowerment in Politics: Role of Self Help Groups in Tamilnadu

Entry of women into political institutions is an issue of equality. Women's participation in the political process is crucial for strengthening the democratic traditions. SHG serves as a strategic tool in bringing up women in political scenario. This study examines whether the membership in Self-help Group have really made an impact on political empowerment of women. This paper also analyses that women's participation in a community-level programme, membership in various associations, extent of participation in voting and campaigning for elections and participation in grievance handling mechanism have made a mark on their political empowerment. The findings suggest that participating in a group programme would give a platform for women to participate in political sphere.