Abstract
Microfinance has evolved as a poverty alleviation tool, yet without addressing health, it will only have a limited impact, as poor health can contribute to increased poverty. This research examines a different approach to integrating initiatives that concern women’s health with microfinance programs through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in India. It is based on a case study method where various case models integrating microfinance and health interventions are studied. In this regard, this article analyzes various cases from several states in India with a focus on the use of SHGs as an effective platform for delivering health education, services, and financial products designed to meet the specific needs of women. The research shows that SHGs are crucial for enabling their members' access to credit facilities, income-generating opportunities, and primary health care, which are necessary for fostering an environment suitable for empowering women and developing community structures. Thus, this study concludes that when applied together, such initiatives promote better health indices and augment female economic activities and decision-making ability.
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