Self-help groups (SHGs) have emerged as a transformative force in uplifting marginalized communities, particularly in the rural heartlands of India. An increasing number of underprivileged women across various states are actively enrolling in SHGs, engaging in activities such as savings mobilization, credit access, income-generating ventures, and sustainable management of local resources. The savings and credit mechanism within an SHG forms its core foundation, providing members a degree of financial control and the ability to invest in productive opportunities. The SHG model has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in fostering women's empowerment by gradually dismantling the cycle of dependence, exploitation, and social exclusion. According to NABARD, an SHG is defined as a compact, economically similar cluster of rural poor individuals who come together voluntarily to pool savings and contribute jointly to a shared fund, which is then disbursed as loans based on collective decision-making. Typically, a self-help group is a community-level financial institution comprising around 10 to 20 local women. Members begin by making small, consistent contributions over several months until sufficient capital accumulates within the group to commence internal lending. These pooled funds may then be made available to members or to other residents of the community for a variety of needs. Over the years, SHGs have grown into a widespread and effective pillar of both rural and urban development across India. Women come together, inspire one another, and collectively forge new pathways toward sustainable livelihoods. The majority of SHGs are established without any initial external funding, relying solely on the modest but regular contributions of their members. After sustaining a consistent savings record, these groups begin extending small internal loans for micro-entrepreneurial activities and essential expenditures. Only those groups that demonstrate responsible management of their own resources become eligible for external financial support through linkages with banks and other formal financial institutions. Read the given passage carefully and answer the following questions. Certain parts have been highlighted to help answer the questions.

In what ways have women gained from their participation in self-help groups?