For women in rural India, life is a struggle – for a decent standard of living and women’s rights. By joining a self-help group women can earn more and take a stand against discrimination and gender violence.

​

Women have few opportunities. Casual farm work is irregular and poorly paid and the government’s relief work scheme pays even less. But women enrolled in self-help groups can get loans to start small businesses—and earn more. We’ve helped many thousands to take up simple enterprises like keeping backyard cows or running a teashop.

 

Self-help group loans can also pay for children’s education, medical needs, housing, and to help families through a difficult patch. They are an affordable alternative to doorstep loans that can lead to over-indebtedness.