“Micro-credit programmes have helped to fill in the gaps in the formal credit system.”
Justify the given statement.
Micro-credit programmes play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the formal credit system and underserved populations by providing small, collateral-free loans to individuals who lack access to traditional banking services.
How Micro-Credit Programmes Fill Gaps in the Formal Credit System: Access to Credit for the Underserved: Traditional banking institutions often exclude low-income groups, rural populations, and small entrepreneurs due to lack of collateral and credit history. Micro-credit programmes, operated through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), provide financial assistance to these segments, enabling them to start or expand their businesses.
Financial Inclusion and Women Empowerment: Many micro-credit programmes focus on lending to women, fostering financial independence and improving household welfare. Women-led SHGs help in promoting entrepreneurship, enhancing social status, and contributing to household income.
For a hypothetical economy, assume the government increased infrastructural investment by ₹10,000 crore. 80% of additional income is consumed in the economy. Estimate the increase in income and the corresponding increase in consumption expenditure in the economy.