He realized the only way to empower women was to provide them financial freedom and stability.
This made Dr. Prabhakar started the Society for Rural Improvement (SRI), a non profit organization, to provide socio-economic support to poor rural women.
Dr. Prabhakar was well settled and leading a successful life as an English professor in the US. But when he returned to Palakkad, he saw the poor living condition in villages and the lack of livelihood options.
“We identify those people who are living in remote areas where there are no facilities, or women who have abusive husbands or a family to support,” says Dr. Prabhakar.
Through his model, he started giving collateral free loans to the women. He chipped in Rs. 2 lakh from his own pocket and started giving micro credits. The loans model has been customized according to the needs of the women. The minimum loan provided is Rs. 10, 000, which the women can repay on a weekly basis.
The one-on-one relations with the beneficiaries and regular communication is what Dr. Prabhakar believes are the success mantra of the model.
Another USP of this micro credit loan model is the low interest rate, which is around two percent less than the market.
Read the original story here- http://www.thebetterindia.com/22686/dr-prabhakar-kerala-women-empowerment-english-professor-micro-finance/
Do you agree with this way to empower women?
I am sharing the Kindness story for WATWB– WE ARE THE WORLD Blogfest
7 Comments
This is very inspiring financial freedom and empowerment of women are the basic framework which is needed to make India go ahead.Loved this
A man after my heart. I completely agree that women must be given the opportunity to be financially independent. At least that way after working hard all their lives they will not be impoverished or dependent on someone else for their daily bread.
Lovely story about empowering women, and empowering us all. Just goes to show that even small acts can reap great human benefits. Thanks for sharing Simon’s Still Stanza #WATWB
That sure is a noble initiative, good deeds indeed. Women empowered is the best thing ever!
Thank you so much! Team #WATWB
*Inderpreet/EloquentArticulation*
I too found this very crucial. Its hard to be someone who first thinks about others than self.
great post..
Thanks Avani. Hope to see you often here.