My husband used to be the only breadwinner in our family. After he retired from Wah Factory, he started driving a cab. Then he fell seriously ill. His medical treatment cost Rs 45,000/- for which we had to sell his cab, and matters got worse. That was when I decided I had to earn for my family's survival. Our families are very traditional and strict, so my husband was absolutely against the idea. But the First Women Bank Ltd smoothed the way. The Mobile Credit Officer had held a community meeting in my locality, which I had attended. I was able to start my small business with the help of their micro credit scheme. The staff encouraged me and helped me all the way. The Bank's Programme Manager even helped to get a stall allotted to me at the weekly bazaar.

I sell children clothes, hosiery, kitchen items and decorations, and am earning a regular income and have become one of the two breadwinners in the family. It took a long time, but my husband finally admitted that we'd have been lost had I not taken this step. I've now taken a second loan of Rs 10,000/- and have recently bought another stall in the same market. FWBL's help came when I needed it most. Against all social barriers, I am now economically empowered. It has made all the difference to my family life."