The Role of Leadership in Group Cohesiveness of SHGS: A Study in West Bengal

Abstract

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as important instruments of women empowerment, entrepreneurship development, and rural socio-economic transformation in India. While several studies have focused on the financial dimensions of SHGs, comparatively less attention has been given to the role of internal social dynamics such as group cohesiveness and leadership. The present study examines the impact of leadership style on group cohesiveness among SHGs in North Bengal, India. The study is descriptive in nature and is based on primary data collected from 326 SHG members across the districts of Jalpaiguri and Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad of Darjeeling district through a structured questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale. Multiple regression analysis was employed to analyse the relationship between leadership style and group cohesiveness, along with selected control variables. The findings reveal that leadership style significantly influences group cohesiveness within SHGs. More structured and authoritative leadership styles were found to positively contribute to group unity, coordination, and discipline, whereas excessive laissez-faire leadership weakened cohesiveness. Group vintage and proper maintenance of records were also found to positively influence cohesiveness. The study highlights that effective leadership and strong social bonding are essential for the sustainability of SHGs, successful group income-generating activities, and the broader process of women empowerment and entrepreneurship development in rural India.