Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction

• Define the Feminization of Agriculture: Explain the concept as the increasing role of women in agriculture due to changes in labor dynamics.
• Context: Mention how urbanization and migration influence this shift.
• Relevant Fact: As per the Economic Survey 2017-18, 71% of economically active women in India are engaged in agriculture.

2. Factors Driving Feminization of Agriculture

• Urbanization:
  • Changes in agricultural value chains (e.g., food processing, packaging).
  • Increased mechanization pushing men towards non-farm activities.
  • Relevant Fact: Urban areas demand more diverse and specialized agricultural products, creating new opportunities for women.
• Migration:
  • Male outmigration to urban centers for better opportunities.
  • Women left to manage farms and households.
  • Relevant Fact: National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data highlights rural male migration rates of ~25% in several states.
• Other Factors:
  • Poverty and economic necessity.
  • Traditional labor divisions, with women continuing labor-intensive farming roles.
  • Relevant Fact: According to FAO, women produce 60-80% of food in developing countries.

3. Socio-Economic Impacts

• Social Impacts:
  • Gender Equality: Women’s roles challenge traditional norms, promoting gender inclusivity.
  • Community Development: Formation of women’s groups and cooperatives fosters mutual support and innovation.
  • Relevant Fact: Studies by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) show women’s active involvement enhances community resilience.
• Economic Impacts:
  • Poverty Reduction: Women’s increased participation contributes to household income and food security.
  • Sustainable Agriculture: Women adopt eco-friendly practices like crop rotation and organic farming.
  • Economic Empowerment: Greater control over resources and decisions.
  • Relevant Fact: According to NABARD, women’s self-help groups significantly increase farm productivity and income in rural areas.

4. Challenges Faced by Women in Agriculture

• Limited access to credit, technology, and land ownership.
• Burden of dual responsibilities: farming and household management.
• Lack of training in modern agricultural techniques.
• Relevant Fact: Only 13% of rural landowners in India are women, as per a UN Women report.

5. Conclusion

• Reiterate the importance of addressing gender disparities in agriculture.
• Advocate for gender-specific policies like improved access to resources and training.
• Highlight the need for inclusive strategies to make agriculture more sustainable and resilient.

Key Facts to Include in the Answer

1. Economic Survey 2017-18: 71% of economically active women in India work in agriculture.
2. FAO Report: Women produce 60-80% of food in developing countries.
3. NABARD Study: Women’s self-help groups significantly enhance farm productivity.
4. UN Women Report: Only 13% of landowners in rural India are women.
5. NSSO Data: ~25% male migration rates in several rural regions, contributing to labor shifts.

This roadmap ensures a structured and fact-based response to effectively address the question.