Contributions of women farmers in agriculture and their importance in advancing agricultural developments were discussed at the Mahila Kisan Diwas 2026 meeting at the District Collectorate on October 15.

The objective of celebrating Mahila Kisan Diwas, which was conceived and celebrated since 2016 by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, was to recognise and honour the significant contributions of women to Indian agriculture and highlight their role in advancing agricultural development and building a Viksit Bharat.

Since this year’s theme was “Role of Women Farmers in Building Developed Agriculture and a Developed India”, adoption of modern agricultural technologies, crop diversification, livestock management, conservation of natural resources, and development of agriculture-based enterprises involving women farmers were discussed at the meeting chaired by Collector R. Revathi.

As women were an integral part of agricultural system - from sowing, transplanting and harvesting to livestock management, seed conservation, natural resource management and value addition - their traditional knowledge, role in biodiversity conservation, entrepreneurial initiatives and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices are vital to strengthening rural livelihoods and enhancing agricultural resilience. As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by NSO, MoSPI, women constituted 59.8% of the total workforce engaged in agricultural activities during January–December 2025, according to a Press Information Bureau release.

Apart from women farmers, women agricultural officers and extension functionaries also play a crucial role in connecting agricultural research with farmers. Through the dissemination of scientific farming practices, promotion of modern technologies, training and awareness generation about government schemes, they help farmers access knowledge and improve agricultural practices.

Recognising women farmers, ensuring equal opportunities and strengthening their access to modern technology and essential resources are important steps to achieve required development agriculture, the release added.