Empowering Women Farmers: Bridging Gender Gaps in Agri-Food Systems

President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women in agriculture policy and leadership during the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems. Murmu advocated for initiatives supporting women's financial, technical, and leadership roles to achieve gender-inclusive agricultural growth, highlighting successful case studies and government support programs.

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday made a strong case for increasing the involvement of women in agriculture and agri-food sectors at policy and leadership levels. Speaking at the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems, she urged for concerted efforts to close gender disparities in the value chain.

The President emphasized the strategic focus on women-led growth within India's agricultural framework, advocating for women farmers to gain enhanced roles in decision-making. Highlighting the impact of AI technology, Murmu pointed to 'Sarlaben', a government-backed AI initiative, as a model for enabling women in the agricultural sector.

Murmu called for further dissemination of successful case studies and recognized government initiatives aimed at financially empowering women. These efforts include the Jan Dhan Yojana, Mudra loans, and the Namo Drone Didi scheme. She concluded by underscoring sustainable development goals and the global agenda of peace and partnership.

(With inputs from agencies.)