0 DEVELOPMENT THRU’ ….. SHG FORMATION:

Self-help Group (SHG) have proven track record in economic development. With the help of MANTRA people of marginalized communities, tribes and backward class, form a group for the self sustainability and economic independence. In these groups habits of small savings are formed and loan can also be given from these savings. SHGs have made thousands of success stories in economic development with the help of MANTRA. Present study indicates that psychosocial skills can be enhanced within the SHGs. Specific psychosocial skills like assertiveness, interpersonal relation, adjustment with the modernization process, communication and empathy can be enhanced within the mandatory activities of SHGs. These skills can be improved during normal course of economic behaviour. During savings and approaching for loan; assertiveness and communication training can be given. Mental health education can also be given during SHG meetings. It can be concluded that existing SHG model can be useful in psychosocial development and enhancing mental health.