Role of Women in Global Agriculture
The United Nations General Assembly declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, highlighting women's crucial role in agriculture. Women contribute to nearly half of the global food supply, accounting for 60% to 80% of food production in developing countries and 39% of agricultural labor in South Asia.
Challenges Faced by Women in Agriculture
- Significant gender inequality in land ownership, with only 14% of landowners in India being women, despite women making up 80% of the agricultural workforce.
- Limited access to credit, financial institutions, and agricultural technology, impacting investments and technology adoption.
- Climate change exacerbates vulnerabilities by increasing domestic responsibilities and agricultural risks.
Government and Organizational Support
- The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana and the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation provide skill enhancements and subsidies for machinery.
- 30% of the National Food Security Mission's budget is allocated for women farmers in various states and union territories.
- The ENACT project in Assam empowers women farmers by providing climate-related information and facilitating informed decision-making to enhance resilience.
Innovative Projects and Initiatives
- The ENACT project connects women with experts via technology, providing weekly agricultural and climate advisories to over 300 farmers in Nagaon district.
- Climate Adaptation Information Centres enable video conferencing and meetings for better agricultural and livelihood information.
- Promotion of flood-resistant rice varieties, livelihood diversification, and market linkages to mitigate crop damage.
Policy Recommendations
- Design policies that consider the unique needs of women farmers using granular data with a gender focus.
- Enhance women's access to financing and information, supporting collective action and networks like women's self-help groups.
Recognizing 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer is a historic opportunity to promote resilient agricultural development and gender equality.