When rural women have control over the household money, this has a positive impact on the overall well-being of families. Income in the hands of rural women, translates into improved child nutrition, health and education. It is the way to break the cycle of poverty (World Bank).

Working women gain greater decision-making power regarding the use of household resources. They will experience increased self-esteem and self-pride, which ultimately results in a more equal position in the family.

Empowering women also makes economic sense. Women who are economically empowered contribute not only to their families, but also to societies, and national economies. Women investing extra income in their children, provides a route to sustainable development. When children can go to (a better) school it increases their chances of a better future.

Why is schooling important for girls in rural India? An extra year of primary school:
o increases girls’ eventual wages by 10-20 percent
o encourages girls to marry later
o results in having fewer children
o makes girls less likely to experience violence

Educating girls is one of the most powerful tools for women’s empowerment. It provides women of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills, and self-confidence they need to seek out economic opportunities.