The empowerment of women plays a crucial role in addressing the issue of rural poverty in Eastern and West Khasi Hills districts of Meghalaya. This paper explores the role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in promoting women’s empowerment and their contribution to alleviating rural poverty in these districts. Self-Help Groups, primarily focused on providing financial resources, skill development, and social support enabling women to actively participate in economic and decision-making processes. The study examines the significant challenges faced by Self-Help Groups, such as access to markets, sustainability of group activities, and dependence on external aids. It emphasizes the need for policy support and greater financial inclusion to enhance the effectiveness of these groups in rural areas. Strengthening these groups and their network will be critical in advancing gender equality and sustainable development in the region.