Self-Reliance Microfinance in Tharparkar-Sindh: Suggested Techniques

This paper analyzes the conditions and possibilities for establishing a new microfinance model, the Self-Reliance Micro-Finance (SRMF), in Tharparkar, Pakistan. It also proposes the establishment of the Thar Micro-Finance Bank (TMFB) and suggests implications. The paper bases its argument on primary data collected through interviews and secondary sources such as case studies, magazines, newspapers, books, firms, websites, State Bank Library booklets and the Grameen Bank Bangladesh website. The study reveals that the proposed bank can be established in Tharparkar. The paper states that:

• Some non-government organizations (NGOs) have already started these types of programs in some villages and villagers are already benefiting from them;
• Introducing this model requires motivation and awareness among people about its benefits;
• The model gives the dual benefits of assistance and completion of social and economic projects.

The paper also states that this model will save time and expenditure, which could be utilized for the disbursement of funds from donors and the government for natural disasters like famine, earth quake, cyclone, damages during rainfall, etc. It concludes that the Self-Reliance Micro-Finance model will provide a safety net to the Tharis, and will alleviate poverty and enable the Thari people to prosper, thus improving the economy of Pakistan.