By March 2008, 550 groups have accomplished savings and common fund of Rs. 240 lakh and their cumulative internal lending was Rs. 678 lakh. During 2006-07 and 2007-08, the groups have mobilised Rs.172 lakh bank loans and availed Govt. subsidy of Rs. 61 lakh under various schemes.

Poverty assessment

In line with the objective of inclusion of the poorest and marginalised in the SHG fold in order to enable them to be eligible for various benefits, the poverty assessment of families in all project villages was completed. The assessment included both members and non-members in hamlets where CRUSADE has groups. The indicators included type of housing, income generating assets with the family, occupation and other assets. The data collected were analysed using an exclusive software developed for the purpose. The analysis generated information of the poorest still excluded . The family details of these poorest families were provided to field staff and were oriented to motivate the women from these families to form groups relaxing SHG norms. Women short listed by field staff were also visited by senior staff to ensure they belong to poor families.

Ultra Poor Families

Despite definite positive developments in economic & social status of members of Self Help Groups promoted by CRUSADE over the years with bank and Government linkages, the poor living conditions and low levels of health and nutrition of the ultra poor cause concern and it is realised some of them are still outside SHG mainstream. Vicious circle of poverty and extreme deprivation cause considerable hardship to send their siblings to free government schools as they find it difficult to meet the cost of uniforms, note books , transport and nominal school fee. This demand remedial measure. In this phase it is planned to identify these families and provide them whatever support needed and motivation to enable them escape from the misery and helplessness.