Women Farmers in Agriculture

Source: IE

Context:

The United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), recognizing the critical role of women in ensuring global food security and sustainable agriculture. India also hosted the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS–2026) in New Delhi to promote policy reforms and highlight women’s contributions.

Who are Women Farmers?

Women farmers participate across the entire agricultural value chain including land preparation, crop production, livestock management, post-harvest processing, and marketing. They are increasingly being recognized as entrepreneurs and decision-makers rather than unpaid labour.

Key Data and Statistics

• 80% of economically active rural women are engaged in agriculture
• 33% are agricultural labourers and 48% are self-employed farmers
• Around 25% of PM-KISAN benefits go to women
• 2.58 crore women trained under DAY-NRLM (2022–2025)
• 1,175 women-led FPOs with 100% female shareholders

Role of Women Farmers in Agriculture

Crop Production and Pre-Harvest Activities

• Women perform key tasks like sowing, weeding, and transplanting, especially in crops like paddy.

Livestock Management

• They manage dairy, poultry, and small livestock, contributing significantly to household income.

Post-Harvest Processing and Value Addition

• Women are involved in food processing, storage, and value addition through SHGs such as mushroom cultivation and spice processing.

Natural Resource Management

• They contribute to soil conservation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable farming practices.

Technology Adoption

• Women are increasingly adopting modern tools such as drones and precision farming technologies.

Government Initiatives for Women Farmers

Namo Drone Didi Scheme

Provides drones to women SHGs for precision agriculture.

Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP)

Focuses on skill development and empowerment of women farmers.

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)

Provides financial support for building storage and farm infrastructure.

Krishi Sakhi Programme

Trains women as grassroots extension workers.

ICAR–Central Institute for Women in Agriculture (CIWA)

Develops women-friendly agricultural tools and technologies.

Challenges Faced by Women Farmers

Lack of Land Ownership

Limits access to credit and government schemes.

High Physical Drudgery

Use of heavy tools leads to health issues.

Limited Access to Credit

Dependence on informal lending sources.

Knowledge Gap

Limited access to agricultural training and extension services.

Climate Vulnerability

Greater exposure to climate-related risks.