The rise of the NGOs in the global context is identified as an important phenomenon,
which has implication for the development prospects of the poor. In recent years, all the developmental
sectors emphasise on incorporation of women’s participation in development. Different social and
religious values, belief, norms, prejudices have kept the women far away from such development.
Many development organisations throughout the country are putting concerted efforts towards
women empowerment through SHGs and one such organization is Viswa Santhi Balananda Kendram
(VSBK), Andhra Pradesh. The headquarters of the organisation is in Guntur and it works in the
districts of Guntur and Prakasam districts of Andhra Pradesh. It focuses on the effects of the SHGs on
women’s participation and exercising control over decision- making, both in family matters and in
group activities