A Girl Farmer!

Just like there is a need to call out a Female CEO or a Female MD, the same applies to a female farmer. There is a need to spread awareness and guide women to venture into agriculture. Though we do come across some outliers, there is a vast majority of women who have not received their due credit when it comes to recognizing their contribution to agriculture.

The mindset of urban women and rural women is quite different.

Some of the issues faced, especially in rural areas: Men get a lot of share in governmental publicity material and within the banking sectors, but millions of women farmers have no spokesperson from their ranks. The primary reason for this is that they are usually not listed as primary earners and land assets owners within their families.

There exist embedded gender discrimination in the Indian farming sector. Some information for getting started with farming (places mentioned are Mumbai specific).

1. Get soil and water testing done of the plot. These tests are done for minimal cost in Krishi Bhavan (Thane West). Their report will help you decide what you should grow
2. Connect with Krishi Udyog (Aarey, Goregaon). They will help with what fertilizers, pesticides you can use. Also, help with discounted rates on tractors.
3. Contact the local Krishi Sahayak and understand the various government schemes which will support and give you subsidies. The Sahayak also guides with the paperwork.

1. Have patience and determination throughout the journey— especially the initial years after the plantation.
2. Explore markets, establish contacts, think of marketing strategies for your produce, tie-ups with various platforms for selling your produce.
3. Get ready to get your hands dirty (literally)

My team and I at Maharashtra Agriculture Council @ WICCI are just getting started in spreading awareness and encouraging women in agriculture.

In case you have any queries, happy to answer.