NITI Aayog Report Highlights Women’s Growing Role in India’s Financial Landscape

NITI Aayog, in collaboration with TransUnion CIBIL, the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), and MicroSave Consulting (MSC), launched a groundbreaking report titled “From Borrowers to Builders: Women’s Role in India’s Financial Growth Story” on Monday. The report, unveiled by NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam, underscores a remarkable shift in women’s financial participation in India, highlighting their increasing engagement in credit monitoring and financial literacy.

Rise in Women’s Financial Awareness

According to the report, as of December 2024, nearly 27 million women in India were actively tracking their credit scores, marking a 42% increase compared to the previous year. This surge indicates growing financial awareness among women and their willingness to take charge of their credit health.

The findings reflect a significant transformation in India’s financial landscape, with more women seeking credit and utilizing financial tools to enhance their economic independence.

Empowering Women Through Financial Access

During the launch, BVR Subrahmanyam emphasized the importance of financial inclusion in women’s empowerment, stating that access to finance is a key driver for women’s entrepreneurship. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering a financial ecosystem that supports women entrepreneurs through:

• Financial Literacy Initiatives – Educating women about credit management and financial planning.
• Easier Access to Credit – Expanding opportunities for women to obtain business and personal loans.
• Mentorship and Market Linkages – Connecting women with industry leaders and business networks to enhance their entrepreneurial journey.

The Role of Financial Institutions

The report also stresses the need for financial institutions to design inclusive financial products tailored to women’s needs. It calls for banks and credit providers to adopt gender-responsive financial strategies, ensuring equitable access to credit for women across different socio-economic backgrounds.

Towards an Inclusive Financial Ecosystem

The launch of this report reaffirms NITI Aayog’s commitment to building an inclusive financial framework where women are not just borrowers but active contributors to India’s economic growth. With sustained efforts in financial education, access to resources, and supportive policies, India is steadily advancing toward a future where women play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s financial story.