For over two years, CFI has partnered with three MFIs in India—Equitas, ESAF, and Annapurna—with the support of v-shesh, the disability support organization, to customize the Disability Inclusion Framework for the vast Indian market. Tens of thousands of persons with disabilities (PWD) have become clients in mainstream financial services, helping them become economically active. Almost all of these clients are first-time borrowers. This working group created tools and an operating model for MFIs to incorporate PWD as staff and clients. The recommendations, which include policy changes in non-discrimination and other areas, are being piloted at the MFIs. Disability-awareness trainings have been conducted for thousands of MFI staff across the country. The PWD clients who have borrowed credit from these MFIs feel very privileged, as they are regarded with dignity and pride while they earn their livelihoods and learn about financial inclusion opportunities.

Below are a collection of brief stories of PWD clients from Equitas, ESAF, and Annapurna. Click on the images below to read the stories.