Women in agriculture Empowering India’s female farmers

Abstract

Women play an essential role in Indian agriculture, contributing significantly to various sectors including crop production, livestock, fisheries, and forestry. They make up a substantial portion of the agricultural workforce, especially in rural areas, where 80% of women rely on agriculture for livelihood. Despite their contributions, women face significant challenges such as limited land ownership, restricted access to technology, financial barriers, and exclusion from training opportunities. Empowering women farmers is vital for enhancing food security, economic growth, poverty reduction, and gender equality. Initiatives that improve access to resources, provide targeted training, support gender-inclusive policies, and promote sustainable practices can help strengthen the role of women in agriculture, fostering social and economic empowerment, and advancing sustainable development.