A list of 228 women self-help groups (WSHGs) formed near sea beach, Puri, Orissa undertaking various activities in marine fisheries sector with bank linkage was collected from PENCODE, a non-governmental organization during 2002-03 to 2007-08. The WSHGs were earning their livelihood from making dry fish, preparing fish pickle and engaging in fish trade. A total bank loan of Rs. 82, 38,000 was sanctioned to the groups during 2002-03 to 2007-08. Of this, Rs. 1, 77,000 was availed during 2002-03 and subsequently Rs. 21, 85,000 during 2007-08 registering 12.3 times increase over six years. It was
observed that the number of WSHGs linked with different banks increased about 8 times during this period and the overall loan repayment until November, 2008 was more than 50%. The trend in loan
sanction and repayment indicates generation of self employment and increase in monthly income of group members. Out of 228 WSHGs, three repaid more than 90% of bank loan. Members of these three WSHGs were interviewed and their monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE) for 12 months from August 08 to July 09 was analyzed. The MPCE of members of WSHGs having bank linkage is significantly higher (mean = Rs. 737) than that of the members of WSHGs without bank
linkage (mean = Rs. 499). Through multiple regression analysis, it is found that infrastructure availability has the highest influence on monthly income.

Bank credit, women self-help groups, monthly per capita expenditure