Women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Bihar are emerging as powerful agents of change—strengthening livelihoods while addressing critical nutrition challenges within their communities. Through the establishment of fortified, nutrient-rich food production units, these women are improving access to safe and nutritious food for children, mothers, and vulnerable households.
These community-based food units focus on producing fortified staples that help combat malnutrition, anaemia, and other nutrition-related health concerns. By ensuring better food quality and adherence to nutrition standards, the initiative directly contributes to improved health outcomes, especially among women and children.
Beyond nutrition, the model plays a vital role in women’s economic empowerment. SHG members receive training, technical support, and market linkages, enabling them to generate sustainable incomes and build financial independence. The ownership and management of these units by women foster leadership, confidence, and collective decision-making at the grassroots level.
The decentralized nature of these enterprises ensures that nutritious food reaches local communities efficiently, while also creating employment opportunities within villages. This approach not only strengthens local food systems but also builds resilience by keeping production and benefits rooted in the community.
Women-led SHGs in Bihar demonstrate how livelihoods and nutrition can be strengthened together. By combining economic empowerment with public health goals, this model offers a scalable and sustainable pathway in the fight against malnutrition—placing women at the centre of inclusive and community-driven development.
