To mark this year’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, RAHI
is underlining the crucial role of women farmers in India. The projects shall work exclusively with women farmers to improve food security and food diversity in chosen areas of Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabrangpur districts of Odisha.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2021 is Choose To Challenge.In line with the theme, Rise Against Hunger India chose to challenge preconceived notions associated with farming and the role of women farmers in India. On this occasion, RAHI has launched projects aimed at eradication of malnutrition through farm-based micro-projects in hunger hotspots of India, as part of its SAMBAL initiative launched on World Food
Day 2020.
The projects shall work exclusively with women farmers to improve food
security and food diversity in chosen areas of Koraput, Malkangiri and
Nabrangpur districts of Odisha.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr.Dola Mohapatra, Executive Director, Rise
Against Hunger India said, “Working with women farmers provides higher
chances of addressing malnutrition. This is because higher resources placed
in the hands of women in a family result in the resources being utilized
more efficiently for the welfare of all family members. Women-led increase
in food produce and food diversity shall ensure better nutrition to all
family members as a priority. While a male member of the family may
prioritize the higher sale of farm produce, a woman would prioritize better
nutrition for the family members using the farm produce.”
In rural India, the percentage of women who depend on agriculture for their
livelihood is as high as 84%. Women make up about 33% of cultivators and
about 47% per cent of agricultural labourers. Yet, most initiatives related
to agriculture and livelihoods ignore the role and contribution of women
farmers.
RAHI shall work with Women SHGS and Women Farmer-Groups to promote
climate-friendly agriculture that increases food production and food
diversity. The projects aim to increase the content and diversity of the
food plates in malnourished areas. Surplus production can lead to
additional scope and benefits of livelihood enhancement and forward
linkages, thus enhancing income.
