The project was initiated in 1995, with the funding support from ODA,London(through CommomWealth Human Ecology Council, London) and GTZ, New Delhi. The project period was 1995-2000. The project addresses the financial needs of women from low income groups, living in the urban fringes of Chennai. Promotion of Savings habit, mobilization and optimal utilization of internal resources, developing appropriate community level structures and effective financial management systems and creation of good repayment culture were the main features of the Project. The project was successfully completed. The activities are sustained by the community owned and led institution''AKSHAYA''since 1998.The AKSHAYA has been serving as an inspiration to many women federations across India.