Aquiet revolution is sweeping across the arid plains of Satara district, spreading from the town of Mhaswad, stirring hope in the hearts of illiterate women across Maharashtra. Even President Barack Obama noticed Chetna Sinha's innovative approach to bringing financial literacy to remote, rural communities.

Testament to the success of a system that seeks to empower the poorest and the most vulnerable members of society is Kanta Bai Salunke. As we approach her, she bolts for her ragged tent, sending knives, spades and tools clattering to the ground as she dives for cover. She picks up a faded velvet pouch, rummaging through it, muttering loudly to herself.

Then Salunke pulls out a flat, round tin with a triumphant flourish and a smile that stretches wide across her broken teeth. "I cannot come out to greet you naked, can I?" she says, unscrews the lid and smearing red powder across her forehead. "Now I am dressed. Now you know I am a gheesardi tribal nomad.