Abstract
This paper identifies the factors affecting the operational self-sustainability (OSS) of Indian Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) using multiple regression analysis. It shows revenue generation factor, cost efficiency factor and growth factor to have a positive influence on the OSS of Indian MFIs. Adjusted impairment loan loss allowance ratio, a portfolio risk factor and average loan size per borrower, a development factor, are seen to have a negative influence on OSS of Indian MFIs. The results thus infer five significant factors that Indian MFI managers must concentrate on to enhance the OSS of their organizations. The authors then discuss how mismanaging these five factors can deviate an MFI from its social goal of poverty alleviation. The crisis in Indian microfinance industry is explored to unveil the dangers involved in mismanagement of these factors. The paper concludes by stating that it is imperative for Indian MFI managers to introspect about their lending and recovery practices, so as to ensure that they manage the factors affecting their OSS, without exploiting the poor clientele.