Poverty, Women and Capability: A Study of the Impact of Kerala’s Kudumbashree System

K. P. Kannan () and G. Raveendran ()
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K. P. Kannan: Centre for Development Studies
G. Raveendran: Laurie Baker Centre for Habitat Studies

Chapter 23 in Women and Work in India: Challenges, Opportunities and Perspectives for Policy, 2026, pp 539-562 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The word Kudumbashree is now common in Kerala vocabulary. It refers to a decentralized network of groups of women representing their households who are economically less fortunate than others. It represents half the households in Kerala. A study based on its historical evolution and a sample survey provided valuable insights and lessons. The economic benefits were significant, if not impressive. However, their achievements in the realm of enhancement of capabilities to deal with a wide range of domestic as well as public issues were impressive. That gave them a greater sense of self-worth than before. Their collaborative functioning with panchayat raj institutions has produced a large number of leaders and provided an opportunity to participate in elections to, and governance of, Panchayat Raj bodies. The Kudumbashree Mission, set up by the Kerala Government, plays an important role in the functioning of the Kudumbashree network. There is however scope for strengthening and expanding the autonomous capacity of the network to undertake greater challenges in the future.

Keywords: Kudumbashree mission; Empowerment of women; Neighbourhood groups; Below poverty line (BPL); Capacity building and capability improvement; Mutual support (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-981-95-6103-2_23

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