Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Women’s Participation in Agrarian Activities: A Global Perspective

Agrarian activities worldwide are undergoing a profound transformation, marked by an increasing presence of women as pivotal contributors. This global shift, often referred to as the ‘feminization of agriculture,’ is driven by a complex interplay of factors spanning rural-to-urban migration by men, agrarian distress, and the mechanization of farming practices. While women’s participation in agriculture continues to expand, persistent gender-based disparities pose significant challenges, including unequal access to land, credit, technology, and wage differentials. This study, with a primary focus on India, delves into the nuanced interconnections between socioeconomic factors and women’s roles in agrarian activities. It examines the impacts on food security, agro-biodiversity, and rural development, and identifies opportunities for enhancing women’s access to resources and technology within the agricultural sector. By offering gender-sensitive policy recommendations, this research advocates for a comprehensive, inclusive, and transformative approach to agriculture that recognizes women as essential agents of sustainable rural development, not only in India but across the globe.