ROLE OF MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS (MFIS) IN WOMEN EMPOWERMENT: A STUDY OF MORADABAD DISTRICT IN UTTAR PRADESH
Abstract
Because of its close relationship to empowering women and reducing poverty, microfinance has become an integral part of gender and development programs. For women living in semi-urban and rural settings, microfinance has shown to be a powerful tool for economic independence. Women have significant socioeconomic advantages when it comes to access to financial services, credit, and possibilities to generate revenue. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a crucial role in leveling the playing field for women by providing them with access to capital for underserved communities. In Uttar Pradesh, this study aims to investigate how microfinance institutions (MFIs) have contributed to women's empowerment. In it, we look at how microfinance institutions (MFIs) have affected economic and social facets of empowerment. Using secondary sources and qualitative data gathered from microfinance institution (MFI) specialists and self-help groups (SHGs) in the district's rural and semi-urban areas, this study draws conclusions. The results show that microfinance has helped a lot with things like boosting confidence, income-generating activities, and involvement in family and community decision-making. In order to guarantee that microfinance empowers women in a sustainable and inclusive way, the study stresses the need of bolstering institutional support, capacity-building programs, and tailored financial products.
Keyword : Microfinance Institutions, Women Empowerment, Social and Economic Empowerment, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh.
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References
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