Women’s social capital complements in advancing empowerment and gender equity. Explain. (Answer in 150 words)

Women’s social capital consists of networks, trust and collective action that convert individual capabilities into agency.

Empowerment

• SHGs improve access to credit, livelihoods, information and markets.
• Collective voice strengthens bargaining power, leadership and participation in local governance.
• Peer solidarity counters isolation and supports resistance to violence.

Gender equity

Networks challenge patriarchal norms, reach marginalised women and influence gender-sensitive services and budgets. Inclusion, autonomy and protection from elite capture are necessary.

Keywords: society, women empowerment, social capital, self-help groups