Government Interventions and Policy Frameworks to Ensure Financial Inclusion of Women in Nepal

Abstract

Financial inclusion denotes a process that guarantees accessibility, availability, and utilization of the formal financial system for all constituents of an economy. To put it another way, it refers to the provision of financial services and products to both individuals and businesses, particularly those in disadvantaged and low-income regions, including credit, savings, insurance, and payment methods. Financial inclusion has become an important national priority in recent years as is a pivotal driver for gender equality and sustainable economic growth in developing nations. In Nepal, where women comprise the majority of the population but historically lag in economic participation, the state has transitioned from a general welfare-based approach to a robust, policy-driven interventionist strategy. The study has been undertaken to examine the government interventions and policy frameworks to ensure financial inclusion of women in Nepal. The study utilized a descriptive and analytical framework and relies on several policy models and regulations established in recent years to enhance women’s financial inclusion in Nepal. A thematic examination of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (2023–2028), the Procedures for Interest Subsidy on Concessional Loans (2025), and Digital Literacy Frameworks has been conducted. It is found that, the Government of Nepal has progressed past mere rhetoric, creating an advanced system of subsidized loans, required lending, and digital infrastructures. While significant progress has been recorded in account ownership, the study identifies proxy lending, digital illiteracy, and persistent socio-cultural barriers as critical challenges.