Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 2 — Only two

This question tests knowledge about the Self-Help Group (SHG) programme, its origins, functioning, and institutional support. Out of the three statements, two are correct while one contains factual inaccuracy regarding the initiating institution.

❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: The SHG programme was originally initiated by NABARD in 1991-1992, not by the State Bank of India. RBI permitted SHGs to open savings bank accounts in 1993.

✅ Statement 2 – Correct: In an SHG, loans are given to the group as a whole, and all members share collective responsibility for repayment of any loan taken by individual members.

✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Both Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) actively support SHGs through various schemes including the Financial Inclusion Fund scheme for enabling dual authentication in micro ATMs.

📝 Short Notes: Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• Origin: NABARD initiated the SHG-Bank Linkage Programme in 1991-1992, making it the pioneer of the SHG movement in India.
• RBI's Role: In 1993, RBI permitted SHGs to open savings bank accounts, formally integrating them into the banking system.
• Structure: Typically 10-20 members from homogeneous backgrounds who pool savings and provide mutual credit support.
• Collective Responsibility: Loans are sanctioned to the group, and all members are collectively responsible for repayment.
• Institutional Support: Commercial Banks, RRBs, Cooperative Banks, and NABARD provide financial and capacity-building support to SHGs.
• Focus: Primarily targets women from economically weaker sections, promoting financial inclusion and women empowerment.
• DAY-NRLM: Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission is the flagship programme supporting SHGs.