JEEViKA aims for universal coverage, but how deeply does it reach the most marginalised Scheduled Caste women? This brief examines membership patterns and outcomes using survey data from over 2,300 SC women across three districts.
The findings show high overall coverage (84%), but the most deprived jatis lag behind by 7–11 percentage points. These gaps persist even in leadership roles within SHG structures.
JEEViKA members are significantly more civically engaged, with higher self-efficacy, political participation, and interaction with local institutions. However, these gains do not extend to household decision-making, where no improvement is observed.
Members also have better access to government programmes, with higher NREGA job card ownership and work demand.
The implication is clear: while JEEViKA strengthens public participation and scheme access, targeted efforts are needed to reach the most deprived groups and extend empowerment into the household.
Does inclusion in self-help groups translate into real empowerment? This brief shows how JEEViKA expands public voice and access—while leaving gaps among the most marginalised and within the household.
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