Succeeded where others have failed? Has Rojiroti's model of microfinance led to a reduction in domestic violence?

Rojiroti is a small organization delivering microfinance to the poorest women in Bihar. This article explores Rojiroti’s panel data which shows a decline in domestic violence among its members, acknowledging that this result contradicts much of the existing literature on this topic. Detailed analysis of relevant literature and extensive fieldwork involving qualitative interviews with 16 Rojiroti Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in July 2015 inform the outcomes of this inquiry. While evidence from other microfinance organizations is less positive, there are indications that the specific approach to microfinance initiatives by Rojiroti in this context is successful in reducing rates of domestic violence.