Self Help Groups are stepping stones for development; SKDRDP through its various successful experiments has proved that poor people with the aid of Self Help Groups can achieve development. Pragathi Bandhu Programe has created new confidence in farmers whereas Jnanavikasa Programme has instilled a sense of security in women. With the objective of sharing the benefits of the experience of the experiments through SHGs with other governmental and non-governmental organizations SKDRDP  has established National Institute of SHG Training (NIST) in the newly built Pragathi Sowdha at Udupi.