SRI (Society for Rural Improvement) is an innovative poverty alleviation programme being implemented in the villages in Kollengode area of Palakkad district in Kerala, India. The objectives are poverty alleviation, social emancipation and economic independence of the poorest rural women. The collateral free micro-credit extended only to the poorest rural woman are exclusively utilized for economically viable and environmentally sustainable income generating activities.

Traditional ploughing, an endangered specy

SRI is also adding a new dimension by breeding a work force of young generation, blending the positive elements of the West and the East, such as professionalism, work ethics, productivity, customer service, result-orient approach etc., with respect, dignity and humility to humanity. Such an innovative new work forces are trained to balance out fiscal responsibility with social consciousness.

SRI has exploded a socio-economic myth that the poorest rural women are not credit worthy. It has proved that "micro-credit" can be used as a significant and powerful component in our overall socio-economic development agenda for the poorest.

Subject to funds, SRI will be expanding its service to the other vital socio-economic areas of the poorest, such as literacy, access to drinking water, hygiene and sanitation, health services etc.