India is witnessing a significant shift in the agricultural sector with the rising participation of women in various farm-related activities. The 10th Agriculture Census (2015-16) reveals an increase in female-operational holdings from approximately 13% during 2010-11 to around 14% in 2015-16. The Agriculture sector, which contributes about 16% of the country’s GDP, is gradually emerging as a female-centric activity. This article highlights insightful facts and figures about the increasing role of women in agriculture, the challenges they face, and the steps taken by the government to address these challenges.
A Glance at Women’s Participation in Agriculture
A noteworthy percentage of the Indian workforce engaged in agriculture are women. They account for 33% of the agricultural labour force and 48% of self-employed farmers. As per NSSO reports, around 18% of farm families in India are headed by women. The Economic Survey 2017-18 also observed a rise in male migration from rural to urban areas, leading to an increasing feminization of agriculture.
About Agriculture Census
The Agriculture Census is carried out every five years by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare. Since its inception in the year 1970-71, the census has been providing comprehensive data about the structural aspects of operational holdings in the country.
Definition of Operational Holding
The term ‘operational holding’ refers to any land that is entirely or partly used for agricultural production and is operated as a single technical unit. It can be operated by an individual or a group, regardless of the property’s title, legal structure, size, or location.
Challenges Faced by Women in Agriculture
Despite their significant contribution, women farmers often face numerous challenges. These include lack of land ownership, limited access to financial credit and resources, difficulty in operating most farm machinery, and increased workload without adequate compensation.
| Challenges | Impact on Women Farmers |
|---|---|
| Lack of land ownership | Restricts their ability to make independent decisions and access institutional credit |
| Limited access to financial support | Prevents them from investing in quality inputs and technology |
| Limited access to resources and modern inputs | Makes farm operations inefficient and laborious |
| Increased work burden | Leads to health problems and reduces time for other activities |
Government Initiatives: Steps towards Empowerment
To support the increasing role of women in agriculture, the government has introduced initiatives like the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), a scheme exclusively for women farmers. Implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, MKSP aims to boost women’s participation in agriculture and create sustainable livelihood options for them. The government extends funding support—up to 60% and 90% for North Eastern States—for such projects.
Recognizing the crucial role of women in agriculture, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare celebrates 15th October every year as Women Farmer’s Day. Government schemes such as the National Food Security Mission, Sub-mission on Seed and Planting Material, and the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana have women-centric strategies and dedicated expenditure.
Way Forward
The transition towards more female participation in agriculture can be accelerated by promoting credit provision without collateral under the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development’s micro-finance initiative. Encouraging manufacturers to develop tools and machinery suited for women will also help. Additionally, training and education about innovative technologies and extension services can be extended to women farmers through Krishi Vigyan Kendras in every district.
