In this episode of Policy Talks, Jiji Mammen, Executive Director and CEO, Sa-Dhan, speaks with Anjal Prakash, Clinical Associate Professor (Research), and Research Director, Bharti Institute of Public Policy, ISB.

He speaks about India’s microfinance journey and lists out some challenges the country is facing in the sector.

In this episode of Policy Talks, Swati Chowdhary, Director, Network Development and Banking, South Asia, Women’s World Banking, speaks with Dr Aarushi Jain, Policy Director, Bharti Institute of Public Policy, Indian School of Business.

She traces the evolution of the microfinance sector in the last two decades, from traditional banking to digital systems like JAM Trinity and UPI (Unified Payments Interface).

Swati Chowdhary reflects on the critical need of involving multiple stakeholders to address gender disparities in financial services. She also highlights the success of initiatives like Jan Dhan in boosting financial inclusion for women and stresses the need for targeted efforts to improve digital literacy and break gender barriers.

In this episode of Policy Talks, Dr Abhishek Jain, IAS, Secretary (Home, Information Technology, Finance, Planning & Statistics, Labour, and Employment), and Secretary to CM, Government of Himachal Pradesh, speaks with Anjal Prakash, Clinical Associate Professor (Research), and Research Director, Bharti Institute of Public Policy, Indian School of Business.

Dr Jain discusses how Himachal Pradesh is actively working on an inclusive economic development model, addressing challenges in eco-friendly transport mechanisms, forest economies, commercial plantations, tourism, and governance practices to combat the adverse effects of climate change. Dr Jain also shares insights on how the state government is using data for better governance and effective policy outcomes.