Self-Help Groups rise to Covid challenge

The sensitivity and responsiveness demonstrated by SHGs amid the Covid-19 crisis at the community level is highly commendable. Amidst the growing concerns of shortage of face masks, SHGs located in 521 districts in 27 states/UTs came forward quickly and have already manufactured over two crore face masks for distribution (as on April 9, 2020). In most states, the SHGs are also involved in the distribution of dry rations, and provision of cooked food to the poor and vulnerable families. Their role is being expanded to produce sanitisers, protective gear and gowns for frontline workers.