Oct. 15, 2022: Women play important role in nurturing the family and contributing for family income in agrarian rural Indian communities by participating in labour-intensive agricultural processes and conservation of indigenous crops, dairy and livestock management and fodder cultivation especially in Andhra Pradesh. BAIF Development Research Foundation celebrated their contribution in developing rural livelihoods on the occasion of Mahila Kisan Diwas and international day of Rural Women.
In Andhra Pradesh, Mahila Kisan Diwas and international day of Rural Women was celebrated at Chimalivarigudem village, Buttayigudem Mandal, Eluru District under ITC MSK ABC-80 project and Vemulapadu village, Owk Mandal, Nandyal District under Tata power project. Women self-help groups were invited in programmes. The SHGs have developed an internal credits and savings system to strengthen the financial freedom of participants. Sustainable Agricultural Practices in paddy crop especially green manuring, vermicompost usage in paddy and follow Direct Seeded Rice were successfully demonstrated during the events. These techniques help to reduce water usage and cost of cultivation. The SHG groups were also given training in vermicompost production and Ram lamb rearing to generate income in short duration.
In Lakheri, Rajasthan, the celebrations took place in the presence of ACC Ahead President, Mrs. Shobha Dubey. Padmashri Mrs. Rahibai Popere was also present as chief guest. Guests spoke about organic farming, its benefits and elaborated on the role women play in developing rural economy. 125 women were present for the event. Other CSR officials from ACC Cement were also present for the function.
At BISLD Prayagraj, under WLP project, interaction with women took place. Similar programmes were organised at many literacy centres in Bundelkhand. A dialogue with women encouraged them to discuss their experiences with peer groups.
