Microfinance and Women’s Economic Empowerment in the Marathwada Region

This paper explores the role of microfinance in enhancing women's economic empowerment in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Microfinance, through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), and cooperative banks, has emerged as a vital tool for poverty alleviation and gender equity. The study assesses how access to microcredit, savings, and financial literacy has transformed the socio-economic status of women. It draws on secondary data and field reports to highlight the success stories, challenges, and impact of microfinance on decision-making power, income generation, and social mobility among rural women in Marathwada.