GENDER INVOLVEMENT IN SMALL ENTERPRISES THROUGH MICRO-CREDIT IN RAINFED POTHWAR

This paper examines the impact of micro-credit program on gender involvement through income generating activities using data from a special survey carried out in rural areas of Pothwar during 2003-04. Credit was provided to the community organization members through a very easy and convenient procedure, for the women especially who did not have access to any formal credit institutions in the past. The male beneficiaries obtained credit mostly for expanding the present business like existing retail shops and poultry farms while majority of females took credit to start new business. Relatively more income per month was recorded in case of expanded businesses than new ones. Overall access to credit has provided an opportunity to the poor people especially females and landless households for investing capital in income generating activities. It also provided selfemployment leading to improve their prevailing economic condition. However, most of the beneficiaries were not satisfied with credit amount. Increase in credit amount was highly demanded and it should be according to needs of the people and their capacity. The interest rate should be less than 20% with a six month grace period. Credit efficiency could be enhanced if proper training is also provided.