Question:

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged to fill the gap in the formal credit system as they __________ .

(Choose the correct option to fill in the blank)

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Formal lenders demand collateral. SHGs lend to members without collateral, which fills the gap.
Updated On: Oct 27, 2026
  • Provide loan after obtaining suitable collateral
  • Lend at a high rate of interest
  • Promote thrift in larger proportions
  • Generally provide collateral-free credit to their members
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand the gap in formal credit:
Banks and cooperatives often ask for collateral (land or other security) before they lend. Many poor and landless villagers have none, so they are shut out of formal credit.
A Self-Help Group (SHG) is a small group of 15 to 20 members who save together and lend to each other.

Step 2: Test each option:
(A) Provide loan after obtaining suitable collateral: this is what the formal system does, and it is the gap. SHGs do not do this.
(B) Lend at a high rate of interest: SHG loans are at a fair rate, much lower than that of moneylenders.
(C) Promote thrift in larger proportions: SHGs promote thrift in small amounts, as members save small sums regularly.
(D) Generally provide collateral-free credit to their members: the group trusts its members, so no security is asked. This fills the gap.

Final Answer:
SHGs fill the gap by giving collateral-free credit. Option (D).
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