The study looked at how joining Microcredit Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Chennai, India, helped improve the socio-economic status of women. They compared the living conditions of women before and after joining the SHGs. The researchers used data from SHGs funded by the government and NGOs in Chennai. They used both quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze changes in income, savings, assets, and attitudes of the women. The study found that participating in SHGs led to reduced poverty levels and increased empowerment among women.