The authors would like to place on record their appreciation for the following individuals who gave their time and valuable comments and suggestions to improve the quality of the working paper: Asian Development Bank (ADB) peer reviewers Irina Novikova, principal social development specialist and Marina R. Best, senior social development specialist; and external peer-reviewer Julie Kedroske, head of Technical Assistance, BRAC Ultra-Poor Graduation Initiative. Kathleen D. Aquino, operations assistant, supported with editing of the final draft.