Introduction
Women form the backbone of rural economies, especially in developing countries like India. They are involved in various agricultural activities, from sowing and harvesting to post-harvest processing. Despite their major contributions, women’s labour in agriculture and related sectors often goes unrecognized and undervalued. This answer explores the types of work women do in agriculture and related sectors, along with the challenges they face.
Women in Agriculture
Women contribute significantly to agricultural production. They are involved in a wide range of tasks such as:
- Seed selection and sowing
- Weeding and irrigation
- Harvesting and threshing
- Post-harvest operations like cleaning, drying, and storage
In many rural areas, women are responsible for up to 60-80% of the food production, especially in small-scale and subsistence farming.
Women in Allied Sectors
Besides farming, women also work in allied sectors such as:
- Dairying: Milking animals, feeding, and cleaning cattle
- Poultry: Managing birds, collecting eggs, and maintaining hygiene
- Fisheries: Involved in net-making, fish processing, and selling
- Sericulture: Raising silkworms and processing silk
These sectors provide additional income and contribute to household food security. However, women rarely own the animals or land, and their labour is often unpaid or underpaid.
Challenges Faced by Women Labourers
- Lack of ownership and decision-making power
- Limited access to credit, tools, and training
- Lower wages compared to men
- Exposure to health risks due to long hours and poor working conditions
Conclusion
Women play a crucial role in agriculture and its related sectors, yet their contributions remain invisible in official statistics and policies. Recognizing and valuing women’s labour, providing equal access to resources, and ensuring fair wages are essential steps towards empowering women in the agricultural sector and enhancing rural livelihoods.