Poverty Alleviation or Over Indebtedness: Potential of Microfinance to Promote Economic and Social Empowerment of Single Women (Widows) in Nepal

Single women (widows) are one of the discriminated and marginalized groups in Nepalese Hindu society. Micro-credit program adopted by Non-governmental organization and cooperative are making an attempt to empower single women economically as well as socially. This research paper assesses ‘the change’ bring on the status of ‘non-bankable poor widows’ in terms of their income, well-being, participation and decision making capabilities, having given an access to finance. It also explores the issue of social inclusiveness and over-indebtedness in this microfinance program.