Impact of micro finance on decision making empowerment-A study of self help group members in Kodaikanal, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu, India

Empowerment is a multi-dimensional social process that helps people gain control over their own lives communities and in their society, by acting on issues that they define as important. Empowerment occurs within sociological, psychological economic spheres and at various levels, such as individual, group and community. Empowering women puts the spotlight on education and employment which are an essential element to sustainable development. One of the powerful approaches to women empowerment and entrepreneurship is the formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs) especially among women's SHG is conceived as a sustainable people's institution that provides the poor women with space and support necessary for them to take effective steps towards achieving greater control of their lives.