Back to resources

Uncommon Ground – Lessons From Below

Uncommon Ground | Feb 27, 2009

Microfinance rests on mutualism. This is very different from the individualism of free markets.
Looking for models of financial prudence and sustainability? We don’t have to look very far. Tucked safely away from the scorching heat of the meltdown, at least so far, is the vastly distributed microfinance sector in India, which offers us fascinating lessons.
With an estimated 4.3 million self-help groups (SHGs) scattered across the country, with an average membership per group of 15, mostly women, and an average savings mobilization of Rs22,000, we have the world’s largest microfinance sector and certainly its most diverse.

View PDF

More like this

Civil Society  |  Uncommon Ground  |  COVID-19

Covid-19: Securing the Present and the Future

This is the most serious crisis since World War II. Politicians must step up; voters must allow them to. Politicians are elected because they campaign in poetry, but voters don’t always account for the fact that elected representatives must govern in prose. That chasm between the promise and the delivery becomes more dangerous at times […]
Mar 30, 2020 | Article

Uncommon Ground

Uncommon Ground - Rohini NIlekani

Rich in insights, Uncommon Ground highlights the critical importance of dialogue in our democracy to create a shared vision of the future. View PDF
Oct 15, 2011 | Book Review

Uncommon Ground

Uncommon Ground - Rohini Nilekani - Hindi

Uncommon Ground – Rohini Nilekani – Hindi. Bhaskar Business. View PDF
Oct 4, 2011 | Book Review

Uncommon Ground

Uncommon Ground - by Rohini Nilekani

The author brings together titans of industry and leaders of civil society to explore eight themes relevant to India’s development. View PDF
Oct 16, 2011 | Book Review