In Association with: MFIN & Sa-Dhan
Knowledge Partner: Equifax
Research Partner: M2i
Introduction:
Microfinance is widely recognized as a powerful tool, contributing to and propelling towards achieving sustainable development goals. Its multifaceted roles encompass some of the key aspects instrumental in fostering sustainable development. Through financial inclusion, microfinance democratizes access to capital, empowering marginalized communities and amplifying economic participation. It contributes to poverty alleviation, offering avenues for entrepreneurship and job creation. Microfinance also champions gender equality by providing women with access to financial services. As a catalyst for change, microfinance intertwines financial empowerment with social empowerment, paving the way towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. This year's session is expected to be attended by the MFI practitioners, regulators and funders to discuss most pertinent issues facing the sector.
India's ambitious goal to achieve a USD 5 trillion economy by 2027 places key emphasis on the contribution of its three broad sectors: services, manufacturing, and agriculture. Of the targeted GDP, the service sector is expected to contribute USD 3 trillion, while the manufacturing and agriculture sectors are projected to collectively contribute USD 2 trillion. Microfinance and other regulated financial entities are poised to play a crucial role in achieving this target by supporting the financial needs of these sectors, particularly manufacturing and agriculture with special focus on women as entrepreneurs.
The landscape of India's financial sector is rapidly evolving. Traditionally served by Banks, the financial system has seen the rise of innovative and alternative intermediaries, such as Microfinance institutions (MFIs), Fintech companies, Digital Service providers and a completely new set of innovative and efficient models and products. These organizations are enhancing the flow of credit, financial and other services, particularly to underserved segments of the population, contributing to growth across multiple sectors. The use of advanced technologies in digital financial services, Generative AI is transforming the way services are reached, financial transactions are processed and financial inclusion is achieved, significantly boosting the financial sector's contribution to India's economic growth.
An interesting aspect of this financial evolution is the adoption of digital financial services by the base of the pyramid and underserved communities, including those in remote areas. By providing access to financial services, technology is fostering new livelihood opportunities, improving family incomes, social security and offering better access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Additionally, these developments are helping build resilience to climate risks and natural disasters, which are becoming more prevalent in India.
The 9th Eastern India Microfinance Summit in 2025, themed "Microfinance - On a Path to USD 5 Trillion Economy through Women Entrepreneurship and Financial Empowerment," presents a critical platform for practitioners across various sectors−Banking, Microfinance, Investors, Insurance, Fintech, and Health services−to come together. The summit will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to share insights and collaborate on strategies to contribute toward the overarching goal of building a USD 5 trillion economy, with a special focus on women's entrepreneurship and financial empowerment as drivers of this transformation. Besides, will provide an opportunity to identify common opportunities for partnership.
The Inaugural Session of the 9th Eastern India Microfinance Summit 2025 will deliberate upon the following key issues relevant to the theme of the Summit, “Microfinance - On the path to $5 trillion Economy through Women Entrepreneurship & Financial Empowerment.
Role of Un Organized Sector and its contribution to GDP of India…… Microfinance Role to Unorganized sector is very significant there by will play very important role toward the contribution of $5trillion Economy of India
Session Overview: As technology reshapes the financial landscape, microfinance institutions are increasingly adopting digital solutions to minimize operational risks, improve process efficiency, and elevate customer service standards. This session will delve into the transformative role of technology in the microfinance sector, focusing on how digital tools can streamline operations while safeguarding the interests of clients. The discussion will highlight practical approaches for fraud prevention, ensuring that clients are protected within a digital-first framework.
Key Discussion Points:
As the demand for larger micro-enterprise loans grows, the imperative to shift from group lending to individual models in microfinance becomes evident. This requires several changes in the way microfinance institutions operate and the way stakeholders support these institutions. From redefining operational frameworks and staff training to modifying risk management frameworks, this transition demands a comprehensive approach. This will also require access to capital to enable the MFIs to expand this portfolio. Panelists in this session will discuss the following key issues.
India’s regulatory and policy framework for microfinance has been instrumental in advancing financial inclusion, particularly for the unorganized sector and women clients. By supporting accessible, affordable, and secure financial services, regulatory bodies like the RBI, SROs, and other governing authorities have set the foundation for sustainable sector growth. This session will examine recent regulatory changes, the challenges of compliance, and the sector’s collaborative efforts with regulators and stakeholders. Panelists will discuss how these frameworks support responsible growth, while focusing on stability, fair pricing, and the sector's mission of fostering financial inclusion.
Key Discussion Points:
The regulatory sandbox for fintech is transforming the financial inclusion landscape by enabling regulated entities and start-ups to experiment with new products and delivery models in a controlled environment. This session will explore how innovations in the microfinance sector, alongside strategic partnerships, are expanding outreach and ensuring resilience. Discussions will cover the importance of regular funding, especially during economic downturns, the role of business correspondents and co-lending in reaching underserved communities, and the impact of MFI partnerships with fintech and digital payment integrators in driving seamless financial inclusion.
Key Discussion Points:
Session Overview: As the needs of financially excluded populations evolve, service providers must adapt to offer products that simplify access, reduce delivery time and costs, and improve overall convenience. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) have established deep relationships with underserved communities, positioning them to understand and address clients’ diverse needs, from insurance and healthcare to energy-saving products and environmental solutions. This session will focus on strategies for enhancing product efficiency and developing customized financial, digital, and other services that cater to diverse low-income groups. Panelists will explore the role of credit bureaus in creating comprehensive credit histories, which support better due diligence and open doors for clients to access broader financial services.
Key Discussion Points:
