Empowering Self-Reliance with SHG Loans

Strong communities are built on empowered individuals. An SHG Loan (Self Help Group Loan) is designed to uplift rural and underserved communities by providing collective access to financial support. Whether it’s starting a small enterprise, boosting agriculture activities, or funding cottage industries—SHG loans help groups of women and individuals grow together economically and socially.

These loans are a beacon of opportunity for people who may not have easy access to conventional banking. With shared responsibility, minimal documentation, and low-interest rates, SHG Loans encourage savings, discipline, and self-reliance.

SHG

What is an SHG Loan?

An SHG Loan is a group-based lending model where a group of 10–20 members—often women—form a Self Help Group. These members pool savings, maintain financial records, and access loans collectively for individual or group-based income-generating activities. The mutual guarantee system ensures better repayment rates and financial inclusion.

SHG Loans are ideal for:

  • Women entrepreneurs
  • Rural artisans and farmers
  • Micro-businesses
  • Cottage industry owners
  • Low-income groups without formal collateral

Top Benefits of SHG Loans

Eligibility Criteria

Group size

Group size: 10–20 members

Should have regular group meetings and pooled savings

Should have regular group meetings and pooled savings

SHG must be at least 6 months old

SHG must be at least 6 months old

 

Group must have internal lending and financial discipline

Group must have internal lending and financial discipline

Members should belong to similar socio-economic backgrounds

Members should belong to similar socio-economic backgrounds

Must have a basic SHG record book or register

Must have a basic SHG record book or register

Ideal Uses for SHG Loans
  • Small-scale farming and livestock purchase
  • Stitching, weaving, handicrafts, and rural artisanship
  • Setting up grocery or tailoring shops
  • Purchasing agricultural equipment
  • Running food or dairy businesses
  • Educational or emergency needs of members
Ideal Uses for SHG Loans
Documents Required(SHG Loan)

Documents Required

  • SHG registration documents or meeting book
  • KYC documents of each member (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
  • Bank passbook of SHG account
  • Group photograph
  • Signature or thumbprint of all members
  • Loan application form signed by all members
Do’s and Don’ts of SHG Loans
do
Do’s
  • Hold regular SHG meetings and maintain savings discipline
  • Use the loan amount for income-generating or productive activities
  • Keep clear records of fund usage and repayment
  • Ensure timely repayment by all members to maintain credibility
  • Encourage participation and transparency among all group members
don't
Don’ts
  • Don’t use funds for non-productive personal expenses
  • Avoid delays in EMIs, as group reputation is at stake
  • Don’t misrepresent group activities or member details
  • Avoid lending to members who are not financially disciplined
  • Don’t neglect SHG bookkeeping—it is crucial for future financing

Key Features

Group Lending Advantage

 No need for individual collateral—rely on collective strength.

Easy Access to Credit

Quick approvals for SHGs with proven track records.

Low-Cost Loans

Access subsidized or priority sector lending rates.

Promote Livelihood

Ideal for women-led enterprises and micro business growth.

Build Financial Literacy

Encourages saving habits, record-keeping, and money management.

How It Works
SHG Formation

SHG Formation

Group of 10–20 members formed with shared purpose
Savings Discipline

Savings Discipline

Regular pooling of savings and internal lending

Bank Linkage

Bank Linkage

SHG account opened with a local bank

Loan Application

Loan Application

Collective request submitted for credit requirement

Loan Disbursal

Loan Disbursal

Funds disbursed to group or individual members

Repayment

Repayment

Shared responsibility ensures timely EMIs and loan closure

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Can men be part of an SHG loan group?

While SHGs are commonly women-led, men can also form SHGs if guidelines allow in the region or under specific programs.

What happens if one member fails to repay?

The group is collectively responsible. Regular monitoring and peer pressure generally ensure full repayment.

How much loan can an SHG get?

Loan amounts vary based on group performance and history—typically from ₹50,000 up to ₹10 lakhs or more in stages.

Is prior savings history necessary?

Yes. Most banks require 6 months of consistent saving and meeting activity before granting loans.

Grow Together.
Rise Together.

SHG Loans are more than just financial support—they are the backbone of rural development and women’s empowerment. By harnessing the strength of community and shared responsibility, SHGs help unlock entrepreneurship, create livelihood opportunities, and build stronger families and societies.

Whether it’s running a tailoring unit, expanding a grocery store, or investing in agriculture—SHG Loans provide a safe, scalable, and sustainable path to prosperity. If you’re part of a like-minded group working towards a better tomorrow, this loan can be your stepping stone toward economic freedom and self-reliance.

Take control of your collective future—apply for an SHG Loan today.