Despite grappling with numerous obstacles such as limited access to inputs, markets, technology, training, and credit, coupled with issues concerning land ownership and low incomes, women in Indian agriculture continue to showcase remarkable resilience. Experts assert that by advocating for policies that boost women's empowerment, enhancing access to vital resources like technology, and acknowledging women's invaluable contributions, significant steps can be made toward fostering a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector.
At a workshop titled ‘Transforming Agriculture: Women, Technology, and Sustainable Growth’ organized by the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) and the Forum for Indian Journalists on Education, Environment, Health & Agriculture (Fijeeha), prominent voices underscored these sentiments in anticipation of International Women’s Day.
Highlighting the essential role of women in agriculture, Anuja Kadian, Director at FSII and Government & Industry Affairs Director (Asia Pacific) at Corteva Agriscience, emphasized, "Despite their substantial involvement, rural women are often perceived primarily as laborers rather than acknowledged as farmers in their own right. Furthermore, there exists a considerable gender income gap, exacerbated by climate stressors."
“Enacting policies and initiatives that formally recognize the status of women as farmers, ensuring equitable access to land ownership, credit facilities, and agricultural resources, is paramount. Promoting gender-sensitive agricultural extension services and tailored training programs can bolster women's agricultural productivity and resilience to climate change,” added Kadian.
Shirley Thomas, Project Director of the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) in Indore, shed light on the agency's ongoing efforts to empower women farmers by facilitating the adoption of technology to streamline farming practices and enhance profitability. Dr. Anita Rani, Principal Scientist in Plant Breeding at ICAR-Indian Institute of Soybean Research, underscored the pivotal role of women in agriculture, while Dr. Monica Jain, Professor & Head of the Department of Life Sciences at Maharaja Ranjit Singh College of Professional Sciences, emphasized the importance of empowering women in the agricultural domain.
Progressive women farmers, who have spearheaded transformative changes in farming practices by embracing precision technologies and innovative agronomy solutions, were also honored for their exemplary contributions. Their endeavors have not only doubled farm incomes but have also served as inspiration for neighboring women farmers.
Ananda UVL, Director at FSII and Head of Corporate Communications and Media Relations at East-West Seed India, highlighted the increasing adoption of precision agriculture methods among women farmers, particularly in Madhya Pradesh. Leveraging technologies such as GPS and data analytics, these farmers are efficiently managing resources like water, fertilizers, and pesticides, resulting in amplified crop yields and minimized environmental impact.
Dr. Ratna Kumria, Director of AgriBioTech at FSII, reiterated the organization's commitment to fostering inclusive agriculture by empowering women farmers and workers through policy advocacy, technological advancements, and strategic collaborations with member companies. The integration of technology into agriculture, including recent advancements like drone usage, has further empowered rural women to augment their incomes.
Attending farmers shared their own inspiring stories and experiences, highlighting the transformative potential of technology and women's empowerment in shaping the future of agriculture.
