The ICMIF Foundation and DHAN Foundation have announced the launch of the next phase of support for scaling up mutual life and health microinsurance in India. This next phase will build on the success of reaching over one million households through the 5-5-5 Mutual Microinsurance Strategy and is backed by funds raised through the ICMIF 500km Charity Ride undertaken in September 2024 by Steve Leicester, Chief Financial Officer, and Liam Carter, Senior Vice-President, Resilience at ICMIF.
The project will scale insurance coverage to 50,000 individuals by July 2026 through community-based federation mutuals (specialised units through which mutual microinsurance and related support services are offered) across the areas of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. DHAN’s People Mutuals, the insurance arm of the organisation, will provide life insurance to 23,900 people and health insurance to 26,100 people, including elderly individuals who are often excluded from commercial insurance markets.
Community engagement will be deepened through insurance literacy sessions, training for insurance staff and leaders, and support for new mutual federations—laying the foundations for long-term sustainability and resilience in underserved areas.
“This has been an incredible journey,” said Liam. “We were motivated by the impact the funds raised will have—helping DHAN bring mutual insurance to underserved and under-protected families.”
Steve Leicester added: “Hearing about the challenges faced by low-income communities in India motivated us to take on this challenge. We’re thrilled that the funds we raised are now going to help increase resilience of the most vulnerable communities.”
Mr M.P. Vasimalai, Executive Director of DHAN Foundation, reflected on the evolution of their programme: “Although we initially started the mutual insurance programme in a small way, it was the support from the ICMIF Foundation through the 5-5-5 programme that truly enabled us to scale. We and our communities truly appreciate the support from ICMIF members and ICMIF staff to help us continue our journey. This partnership is a testament to our mutual ideals and commitment to helping one another.”
About DHAN Foundation
Development of Humane Action (DHAN) Foundation is a pioneering NGO in India working to eradicate poverty by building community-owned and locally governed institutions. Established in 1997, DHAN operates in 15 states across India and focuses on improving the livelihoods of low-income households including smallholder farmers, fishers, labourers, and small traders.
Photo shows: Steve Leicester (left) and Liam Carter (right) hold up the DHAN Foundation crest outside the Rochdale Pioneers Museum during the last phase of their charity cycle ride.
