Empowering women for agricultural development in India

Abstract

The agriculture sector is a cornerstone of the Indian economy, employing a significant portion of the population. Women play a critical role in this domain, engaging in labor-intensive activities in both agriculture and allied sectors, while simultaneously managing domestic and reproductive responsibilities. Currently, approximately 64.25% of the total female workforce and 37.11% of the total male workforce are engaged in agriculture. With the increasing involvement of women in agricultural activities, the sector is undergoing a gradual feminization. This shift has led to women assuming greater responsibility in agricultural production, including their growing participation in agro-export activities. However, women in agriculture face numerous challenges, including limited land ownership, restricted access to and control over resources, inadequate credit facilities, insufficient access to modern technologies and market linkages, and limited educational opportunities. Addressing these gender-specific barriers is essential to achieving inclusive and sustainable agricultural growth. Sustainable agriculture is only possible when women are recognized as key agents of change and are actively involved in all stages of agricultural operations. In recognition of this, the Government of India has prioritized the agenda of 'Gender Mainstreaming in Agriculture', aiming to improve rural women's access to resources, schemes, and support systems. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Central Institute for Women in Agriculture (ICAR-CIWA) is at the forefront of this effort. It conducts research on issues affecting women in agriculture and collaborates with stakeholders through participatory action research. The focus is on evaluating the suitability of various homestead and farm technologies for women and recommending ways to make them more accessible and user-friendly. There is an urgent need to cultivate a generation of educated, trained, self-reliant, and innovative women farmers who can lead Indian agriculture while balancing their diverse roles. When gender equality is promoted, economies grow faster, poverty declines, and the overall well-being of both women and men improves. Empowering rural women and integrating them fully into agricultural development programs and policies can catalyze a transformative shift. Increased participation of women in agriculture will not only enhance productivity but also contribute significantly to food and nutrition security and the broader goal of economic growth.