Shillong, Oct 15: Women farmers in Meghalaya have sought access to quality seeds and agricultural machinery at subsidised rates to improve farm productivity and livelihoods.
The demands were raised during the observance of National Women Farmers’ Day at the ICAR Research Complex for the North Eastern Hill (NEH) Region in Umiam on Thursday, where more than 100 women farmers participated.
The programme was organised by ICAR-RC NEH Region in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ri-Bhoi, at M.S. Swaminathan Hall. It highlighted the contribution of women to agriculture and the need to strengthen their role in farming and decision-making.
During an interactive session, participants highlighted the need for improved-quality seeds to secure better yields. They also requested access to agricultural machinery from ICAR at subsidised rates.
Dr Pankaj Baiswer, Director-in-Charge of ICAR-RC NEH Region, stressed the need to familiarise farmers with government schemes, improved farming practices and modern agricultural technologies.
He also called for encouraging women farmers to take up agripreneurship to increase their income, strengthen their livelihoods and achieve greater financial independence.
Baiswer emphasised that male farmers should also be sensitised to women’s empowerment to create a supportive environment for women to participate actively in agricultural decision-making and entrepreneurial activities.
Balakyntiew Umbah, president of the Ri-Bhoi Area Welfare Association (RAWA) and chief guest at the programme, urged women farmers to take pride in their work and not feel discouraged or undervalued because of their occupation.
She highlighted the dual responsibilities shouldered by women farmers, who often balance agricultural activities with household work and family care, and stressed the importance of their contributions to society.
Dr Md. Mokidul Islam, Principal Scientist and Head of ICAR-KVK, Ri-Bhoi, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the significance of the occasion and this year’s theme, “Role of Women Farmers in Building Developed Agriculture and a Developed India.”
Progressive women farmers were felicitated in recognition of their achievements. Participants also received vegetable seeds, including the field pea variety IPFD 19-3, biofertilisers and agricultural literature to support their farming activities.
The programme underscored the importance of improving access to agricultural inputs, technology and training to help women farmers enhance productivity and build more sustainable livelihoods.
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