Self Help Groups (SHGs) Women’s self-help groups (WSHGs) in particular, represented a form of intervention that is a radical departure from most current programmes. They are an effective strategy for poverty alleviation, human development, and social empowerment. Poverty represents a negative facet of human development. The state of Karnataka has always recognized the need for, and value of financial services to the poor. Yet there is no reason to believe that the basic reasons why people need money. The poor borrow money to life events like births, deaths, wedding etc. And to meet emergency needs related to the accidents drought and illness and for others unforeseen contingencies.