This document discusses microfinance and its role in poverty alleviation. It begins by defining microfinance as the provision of small loans, savings, and other basic financial services to the poor. It then discusses a central government project launched in 1999 aimed at raising individuals and groups above the poverty line through microloans. Key features of microloans discussed include formation of self-help groups and joint liability groups, eligibility criteria, loan purposes and terms. The document then lists some of the largest microfinance institutions and their outreach. It concludes by recommending that the government promote microfinance as a key strategy to reduce poverty while avoiding interest rate ceilings and direct involvement in retail microfinance.