Socio –economic status of the women involved in the micro finance programme (a study of Bharatpur - 11, Chitwan district)

Abstract

The study is based on the " Socio –Economic Status of the Women Involved in the Micro Finance Programme. A Study of Bharatpur - 11, Chitwan District. The main objective of this study is, to explore the role of micro finance program for changing status of women in Bharatpur Metropolitan 11 Chitwan District. To study the current socio-economic status of the women involved in the micro-finance program, To examine the changes in the status of the women by the micro-finance program. This study is mainly based on primary data as well as secondary data. There are 150 members. Out of these members 74 respondents were selected by lottery method. The research area consists of heterogeneous groups of people, Brahmin, Chhetri, Ethnic group, Dalit and others. it is found that the younger women members' participation dominated the program. More than 90 percent of the participants are found a married in the study area. Only 37.8 percent of the participants are found women headed. More than three-fourth of the participants are educated (literate). From the study, it has been found that the members are sincere to spent loan to specific purpose. Most of the women beneficiaries from microfinance program are relatively poor women having income less than Rs. 2000 per year. So the program has attained it's of helping the women. The overall impact the microfinance program on women beneficiaries earning and living standard is found significantly positive. The program has also some positive impact on children's education, use of family planning devices, sanitation and other social reforms. Repayment rate of the women participants involved in agriculture activities is less than the participants involved in business activities. The involvement in the income generating activities has enhanced the self-confidence of the women. Training for improving farming techniques and micro-enterprise has helped members to shift from the traditional agriculture to cash crop production and petty business. This has helped to increase income of the participants. At monthly group meetings, women discuss health issues, which they follow in their day-to-day lives. this has increased their awareness on healthcare, including women and children's health , family planning, sanitation and reduction in smoking and alcohol consumption habit.