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REVIEW ARTICLE
Feminism-based Rural Development in India: Changing Perspectives and Way Ahead
1
Economics, CDLU, Sirsa, India
Submission date: 2025-01-22
Final revision date: 2025-02-28
Acceptance date: 2025-03-04
Online publication date: 2025-04-09
Publication date: 2025-04-09
Economic and Regional Studies 2025;18(1):90-103
KEYWORDS
JEL CLASSIFICATION CODES
J16
J19
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Subject and purpose of work: This paper reflects that change needs to be conceptualized as a process in which women are active agents or natural participants. It examines microfinance through three dimensions of social change, analyzing its role in addressing gender inequities and economic marginalization.
Materials and methods: The study is based on a comprehensive review of literature on microfinance, feminism, and social change, analyzing its impact on women's empowerment. It applies feminist theories to assess whether microfinance alleviates or reinforces gender disparities.
Results:Scholars, and policymakers have different perspectives on the effectiveness of microfinance programs. Proponents of microfinance see it as empowering women through economic activities, while critics argue it fosters exploitation by increasing debt burdens.
Conclusion:The study concludes that the effectiveness of microfinance in empowering women depends on structural and policy frameworks, requiring feminist-informed policies to address systemic issues for sustainable social change and gender equity.
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