Mitrata, as the name suggests, embodies two core principles: Friendship and Inclusivity. When we were conceptualizing Mitrata, the promoters asked themselves — Why do we need another NBFC MFI in the country when we already have so many functional ones. This made us undertake a systematic study and our research revealed that there are deep rural pockets which are still financially excluded. We realized microfinance should be a means to improve the social and economic status of those at the bottom of the pyramid, not an end itself. Thus, Mitrata chose to work in these deep rural pockets, with over 20% of our clients being new to credit, highlighting the need for microfinance. Governance is key for Mitrata. We have three independent directors from diverse fields to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and to stay focused on our mission and vision. Mitrata’s genesis is rooted in development background and impact orientation. Our vision is to create a positive impact, ensuring our interventions improve the social and economic status of women beyond just the borrowers of the loan. For us the client protection and transparency is very critical, we tailor our services to meet client needs, rather than imposing our products on them.