Role of Women in Agriculture, Breaking Grounds By Shattering Stereotypes

In the world of agriculture, women have played a pivotal role throughout history, contributing significantly to food production and rural development. However, they have often faced numerous challenges and gender inequalities that limit their full potential. Today, there is a growing recognition of the importance of empowering women in agriculture and ensuring their equal participation. This article explores the critical role of women in agriculture, the barriers they face, and the initiatives driving positive change.

In rural communities, agriculture and related sectors serve as the primary source of livelihood for the majority, encompassing around 80 percent of economically active women. Among them, approximately 33 percent make up the agricultural labor force, while 48 percent are self-employed farmers. 

These rural women actively participate in various stages of the agricultural value chain, including production, pre-harvest activities, post-harvest processing, packaging, and marketing, all aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity. 

According to Pingali et al. (2019), the proportion of women engaged in the agricultural sector has progressively increased over time, leading to a significant contribution to the per capita GDP. Undoubtedly, they represent a significant demographic group with the potential to drive sustainable food systems (FAO, 2011).

Women's contributions to agriculture are wide-ranging. They are involved in all aspects of production, from planting and harvesting to processing and marketing. They also play a key role in managing natural resources, such as water and soil. In addition, women are often responsible for caring for livestock and poultry.

Barriers and Challenges 

Despite their important contributions, women in agriculture face several challenges. They often have less access to land, credit, and other resources than men. They also face discrimination in the workplace. These challenges make it difficult for women to achieve their full potential in agriculture.

Also Read:- Breaking Barriers: The Remarkable Journey of Pooja, an Indian Woman Farmer

Initiative Driving Change 

There are a few things that can be done to support women in agriculture. 

The Government of India has taken several inter-ministerial initiatives to empower women farmers and provide them with access to resources for improving their livelihoods and achieving social and economic gains. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, along with the Ministry of Rural Development, has implemented various schemes to encourage the participation of rural women in farming.

Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana

One such scheme is the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), which was introduced as a component of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana—National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The MKSP scheme focuses on skill development and capacity-building programs for rural women. It is implemented through State Rural Livelihoods Missions (SRLM) across India.

Through the DAY-NRLM scheme, women farmers are provided with training on the use of the latest agricultural techniques, allied practices, and agroecological best practices. These trainings are conducted by community resource persons and extension agencies.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship implements the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) to provide skill training programs, such as Short-Term Training (STT) and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), for rural youth and women. These programs aim to empower them and help them earn a livelihood.

Also Read:- Meet Leena Sharma, Empowering Women Through Natural Farming 

Other Schemes 

The Ministry of Women and Child Development implements various schemes and programs to promote the holistic empowerment of women and the development of children. These include Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Scheme for Adolescent Girls, Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra scheme, National Creche Scheme, Rastriya Mahila Kosh (RMK), Swadhar Greh, UJJAWALA scheme, Schemes of One Stop Centre (OSC), Women Helpline (WH), and Gender Budgeting Scheme. These schemes have now been integrated into the new umbrella scheme called "Mission Shakti" (Ministry of Women and Child Development, 2021).

The empowerment of women in agriculture is not only a matter of justice and equality but also a key driver of agricultural development, food security, and rural prosperity. By breaking down barriers and providing equal opportunities, we can unlock the immense potential of women in agriculture. Governments, organizations, and communities must collaborate to create an enabling environment that supports women's active participation, recognizes their contributions, and ensures their rights are upheld. By investing in women in agriculture, we invest in a sustainable future for all.

Women's contributions to agriculture are essential to the future of our planet. By supporting women in agriculture, we can help to create a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world.

Also Read:- Status of Women in Agri-Food System in India