Women and Microfinance Prospects and Challenges

Microfinance has been widely recognized today as an effective tool in combating poverty and empowering the world's marginalized populations. Case studies have highlighted its potential role in creating social capital and advancing human development. Women throughout the world contribute to the economic growth and sustainable livelihoods of their families and communities. In India, many of the microfinance programs target women - the most vulnerable segment of the society. This book investigates the relationship between microfinance and women in Rajasthan. Rajasthan, a predominately feudal society in India, is a relatively backward state with respect to microfinance movement. Low literacy rates among women, sparsely distributed population in hamlets in far-off villages, a well-established caste system - all these combine to give a very different flavor to the whole microfinance movement in Rajasthan. The book not only examines women empowerment and income earning opportunities, but management, livelihood skills, sustainability, and social acceptance of the whole movement. [Subject: India Studies, Women's Studies, Economics, Finance, Development Studies, Poverty Studies]