Status Of Women Entrepreneurship And Micro Finance: The Manipur Experience

Globalization and economic liberalization with the doctrine of free markets have opened up tremendous opportunities for development and growth and consequent modification in livelihood strategies. In every society women play critical roles in the family and outside. Socio-economic advancement of a country can be judge best by the status and position of women. Women constitute half of the total population in the world Empowerments of women is a critical factor in the eradication of poverty through remunerative and non remunerative work at home, in the community and in the work place. Women in income generating activities is related to increase their status, role and decision making power in the family and in the society. The extension of small loans through Self Help Groups can help in the growth of micro enterprises in any region. Micro finance has evolved as need based policy and programme to cater the needs of neglected groups especially women, poor, rural deprived etc. Microfinance is one of the most effective and flexible strategy to fight against global poverty. Key words: Microfinance, SHGs, Entrepreneurs, NGOs