Microfinance And Women Empowerment In Haryana: An Analysis And Comparison Of Alternative Delivery Systems

Abstract

This study examines the effects of microfinance on women’s empowerment in the regions of Mewat and Ambala in Haryana, with a focus on factors such as educational attainment, healthcare accessibility, economic gains, and financial autonomy. The data highlight notable disparities between these areas. Women in Mewat, who generally have lower education levels and poorer living conditions, show more significant improvements in household income, asset accumulation, and expenditures on health and education through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) compared to women in Ambala. In Mewat, the majority of microfinance funds are allocated to healthcare needs, whereas in Ambala, loans are more frequently used. Additionally, financial autonomy differs considerably between the two regions, with women in Ambala exercising more control over personal and social spending. These results emphasize the importance of tailoring microfinance strategies to specific regional contexts and offering targeted training to address educational disparities and financial priorities, thereby enhancing the overall impact of microfinance initiatives and fostering greater empowerment for women in varied environments.