SARI 'Book Adda' with Dr Annabel Dulhunty

The ANU South Asia Research Institute Book Adda is a recurring seminar series that showcases the work of the SARI members within the ANU working on political, social, historical, and cultural issues in South Asia, with the goal of encouraging greater exchange, collaboration, and networking amongst the research community.

Women's empowerment and microcredit programmes in India: The possibilities and limitations of self-help groups

Abstract:

This timely book examines the value of microcredit-based self-help groups (SHGs) for women in India and provides an alternative model for women's empowerment programming. The microcredit sector continues to boom globally. Nowhere is this more evident than in India, where the industry has further been deregulated in recent years. Much of the rationale for increased investment in microcredit is based on the idea that it improves 'women's empowerment'. But is this true? Researchers have fiercely debated the value of microcredit programs for women, with some arguing that it is exploitative, and others contending that it is empowering.

This book provides new insights into women's empowerment and microcredit programming, elaborating on the themes of power, dignity, mobility and solidarity. It takes a nuanced view of the complexities surrounding self-help group programming and women's empowerment and argues that the model of microcredit self-help group programming is key to whether it helps or harms women. By focusing on the experiences and voices of microcredit self-help group members in West Bengal, India, this book elaborates on the idea of microcredit models existing on a continuum, from 'smart economics' to more holistic feminist versions of programming.

About the book author:

Dr Annabel Dulhunty is a Lecturer at the Crawford School of Public Policy. Dr Dulhunty’s extensive experience of managing overseas aid and development programs has shaped her research. Dr Dulhunty has a particular research interest in India – examining the impact of social policies and aid programs on the most disadvantaged communities. Dr Dulhunty is currently leading research projects on international aid and the effectiveness of women’s empowerment programs and on climate, diversity and gender equality. 

Discussant:

Remeen Firoz is a PhD candidate in Anthropology at the ANU School of Culture, History and Language (CHL). Remeen’s research focuses on Munda indigenous communities – their lives and livelihoods in Sundarban – the largest mangrove forest in the world.

The book is available online via ANU library's website. Participants are encouraged to read and prepare their questions in advance. Registration is essential as seating is strictly limited in the Boardroom. Thank you for your cooperation.

For general enquiries, please contact SARI Research and Advisory Committee member, Ranu Kunwar atranu.kunwar@anu.edu.au

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