A thematic work on the factual profiles of prevalent microcredit programs in India, this book goes far beyond the review of literature on the concept, country models, and history of the
movement. The book contains an up-to-date review of the regulatory measures and their nuances, as well as a detailed review of evaluation and impact studies. It also dwells on the limitations
of the microfinance movement to satisfy the credit needs of the vast informal-sector enterprises and discusses the new initiatives that the authorities have taken under the broad theme of
"financial inclusion." Keeping the broader objective of distributional goals embedded in the microfinance movement, this record attempts an assessment of the wider challenges faced by the
financial system by providing suggestions for reaching out to the small and informal sectors on a more effective scale.