DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF SHGs: EXPLORING THE ADOPTION OF FINTECH SOLUTIONS IN RURAL INDIA

Abstract SHGs have long played a pivotal role in empowering women and fostering community development, particularly by providing access to microfinance and promoting entrepreneurship. However, these groups have faced impediments in accessing formal financial services, hindering their growth and impact. The emergence of fintech solutions has offered a promising path for SHGs to bridge this gap. Mobile banking, digital payments, and peer-to-peer lending platforms are some of the fintech innovations that have gained momentum among SHGs in diverse regions. This study delves into the digital transformation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in rural India, focusing on their adoption of fintech solutions to overcome challenges and enhance financial inclusion. These solutions promise increased accessibility, reduced transaction costs, and improved efficiency in managing funds and resources, thereby fostering greater financial resilience within the communities they serve. To gain comprehensive insights, a mixed-methods research approach was adopted, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The primary data were gathered through interviews and surveys conducted in select rural areas across India, while secondary data from governmental reports, academic literature, and industry research provided supplementary context and depth to the findings. The study highlights the positive impact of fintech adoption on SHGs, which in turn empowers the group members, primarily comprising women, to take control of their financial lives. However, despite these promising developments, several challenges have been identified. Many SHG members face digital illiteracy, limiting their ability to utilize fintech solutions effectively. Additionally, infrastructural limitations and concerns over data security and privacy pose hindrances to widespread adoption. The study concludes by advocating for targeted policy interventions that focus on promoting digital literacy and capacity-building initiatives for SHG members. Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, financial institutions, and fintech providers are crucial to create an enabling environment that fosters sustainable fintech adoption in rural India