6. Unhealthy competition between Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) reduces the effectiveness of both. Discuss. How can creating a synergy between the two help in addressing development challenges at the sub- district level?

Approach:

♤ Briefly define the role and responsibilities of PRIs and how SHGs compete with these responsibilities.

♤ Discuss how such an overlap may be unhealthy for the effectiveness of both institutions.

♤ Finally discuss how coordination and clear demarcation can bring complementarity amongst the two. Give examples of successful PRI-SHG linkage.