State of Microfinance in J&K - KashmirCorps

APPENDIX III
Interview Guide for Small Help Groups (SHG’s)
Interviewee:____________________
Date: ___ / ___ / ___
Interviewer:____________________
Location:______________________
As volunteers with the non-profit organization KashmirCorps, we are presently undertaking a
study investigating and evaluating existing microcredit initiatives within the valley. We
understand that your SHG has accessed a microcredit loan, and would like for you to help us
evaluate your experience.
SHG General Information
Name:____________________
Location:__________________
Year Started:____________________
Number of Members:_____________
Pre-SHG Formation Conditions
1. How did you find out about the concept of SHGs Do you think it is well-advertised in
your area
2. Why did you decide to become part of a SHG How do you think it will benefit you
3. Did you know the other members of your SHG beforehand Are you all from a similar
background Do you live in close proximity to each other
4. Did you have access to any other form of credit before this SHG (e.g. moneylenders,
informal credit, etc.) Did you use these Why not or why did you switch to SHGs
5. Do you feel like all the information about the operation of SHGs was explained
beforehand
SHG Operation and Function
1. How often are SHG members required to save In what amount
2. Are members of the group producing any good in particular If so, what good How did
the SHG members acquire the skills to produce this good Is there a market for this good
and where is it located How did you find out about this market
3. For what purposes are the internal loans used for What happens if a member cannot
repay the loan What penalty system is in place
4. If no member of the SHG takes out an internal loan, what happens to this money
5. Which people are allowed to access the account in the bank How is this done
6. Are there positions of authority What are these How did you decide who would take
up these positions
7. How many members of the SHG can read and write If there are some group members
who cannot, how are their needs taken care of Do they understand how the ledger
system works and the process of account
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