True, times have changed since the 1970s as women have proved their mettle in the political and corporate world to become successful leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs. However, life is still tough for the rural women in India, who constitute 35 percent of the total population. They are still vulnerable to health hazards, besides social ill-treatment. Women own only two per cent of the land, and receive only one per cent of all agricultural credit. Only five percent of all agricultural extension resources are directed to women. While there are ground breaking programs by the Central and State governments, they do not strike an impressive figure. "…there is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women."? Kofi Annan Empowerment of women involves many things – economic opportunity, social equality, and personal rights. It is important to understand that empowerment is a continuous, ongoing process of enabling someone to take life decisions. Tracking the novel work done by Mohammed Yunus through Grameen Bank of Bangladesh, Self Help Groups (SHGs) of rural women are established by NGOs and government bodies. Their experiment is tangible proof of micro-credit’s efficacy in alleviating poverty and empowering rural women. Against this background, this book aims to introduce the reader to the present condition of rural women in India. It brings out the significance of addressing issues relating to them through policies and initiatives. It throws light on the areas of lacuna that call for corrective measures and initiatives not just at the government level but also at the corporate and societal levels. The book is a comprehensive study of the various means by which rural women may be empowered socially and economically.
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