ESAF started its journey as an NGO during the year 1992, with a larger vision of sustainable and holistic transformation of the poor and the marginalized. In 1995, K Paul Thomas launched Micro Enterprises Development (MED) services and it resulted in the formation of ESAF Microfinance and Investments Private Limited in 2008, giving focus to the financial component in holistic economic development of the poor and marginalized. ESAF Microfinance and Investments Private Limited was one of the pioneers in India , in establishing a formal and structured form of lending by forming mutually trusted groups at the village level that could not only helped to ensure financial sustainability but also in reinforcing the trustworthiness of the poor segment in the society. In the remote and unbanked and underbanked regions of the country, ESAF could cultivate a culture of financial discipline and also improved the workers’ participation . Women too joined the stream and ventured into activities that could financially support their household. Financial literacy mission started by ESAF could not only bring know-how on how to spend wisely but also helped to secure the future of millions in the economically poor strata . ESAF adopted a unique social business strategy, with a triple bottom line approach, emphasizing on People, Planet and Prosperity. Having travelled miles ahead since inception, ESAF still maintains its core principles, vision and mission.
Lahanti Last Mile Services Private Limited is proudly associated with ESAF Small Finance Bank as its Business Correspondent.