The Role of Saving and Credit Co-operatives in Rural Women Empowerment in Dang, Nepal

Authors

  • Bhup KC Nepalaya College Kalanki, Kathmandu, Nepal

Keywords:

Microcredit, Women Empowerment, Saving and Credit Co-operatives

Abstract

Access and control over financial resources is necessary for long-term sustainability of women’s empowerment and their economic progress. This study investigates the role of savings and credit co-operative (SCC) in rural women empowerment in Dang, Nepal. Fifty members of Sirjana Women Saving and Credit Co-operative (SWSCC), Dang, Nepal were considered for the study. The results show that the members of the SWSCC have benefited from SCC with improved savings and access to credit/loans. The members have increased capital investment and started small scale businesses, which contributed to reducing their poverty levels. Only 20% of the households had annual income of more than NRs 100 thousand before joining the cooperative but this number increased to 54% after joining the cooperative. In addition, SWSCC was observed to be providing adult literacy classes to its members resulting in literate adults which helped in empowering the women. In addition, instances that women made decisions on health check-ups of the family members and participation on social meetings increased. The positive outcomes of the study suggest that the Nepalese women should increase their savings and eventually ensure their socio-economic empowerment as well as contribute to the economic development of rural areas in Nepal.

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Published

2022-04-26