Gender Dynamics in Animal Husbandary- Women’s Role in Livestock Farming
Amrita Behera*, Aakanksha Bhoker, Nancy Jasrotia, Prachurya Biswal
Amrita Behera- Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, Bihar Veterinary College, Patna-14, email id- amrita23b@gmail.com
Aakanksha Bhoker- Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Bihar Veterinary College, Patna-14, email id- paaku1611@gmail.com
Nancy Jasrotia- Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kishanganj Campus, BASU Patna-14, email id- nancyjas53@gmail.com
Prachurya Biswal- – Assistant Professor, Department of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kishanganj Campus, BASU Patna-14, email id- prachuryabiswalvet@gmail.com
*Corresponding Author
Introduction:
In the picturesque landscapes of rural farms, where the sun kisses the fields and the air hums with the rhythm of life, there exists a silent force that drives the heart of animal husbandry forward: women. While the image of a rugged farmer tending to his livestock might dominate our perceptions, it’s time we shed light on the often-overlooked but crucial role that women play in this domain. From dawn till dusk, they are the unsung heroes, shaping the landscape of modern agriculture with their dedication, resilience, and ingenuity.
Breaking Stereotypes:
Historically, agriculture has been viewed as a male-dominated sphere, with women relegated to supporting roles behind the scenes. However, this outdated narrative fails to capture the reality of today’s farming landscape. Women are not just bystanders; they are active participants, decision-makers, and innovators in their own right. In animal husbandry, their contributions are as vital as the air that fills the lungs of livestock.
Hands-on Approach:
Step onto any farm, and you’re likely to find women deeply entrenched in the day-to-day operations of livestock farming. Whether it’s milking cows at the break of dawn, feeding hungry mouths, or administering veterinary care, women possess a natural knack for nurturing and caring for animals. Their hands-on approach extends beyond mere labor; it embodies a profound connection with the creatures under their care.
Management and Leadership:
Beyond the physical labor, women are also at the helm of farm management and decision-making. They excel in tasks requiring meticulous planning, budgeting, and resource management. In many cases, women are the backbone of family-run farms, juggling multiple responsibilities with grace and efficiency. Their ability to adapt to ever-changing circumstances and find innovative solutions makes them indispensable in the world of animal husbandry.
Women in animal husbandry are also driving innovation and adaptation within the industry. Whether through implementing sustainable practices, adopting new technologies, or diversifying farm operations, they are at the forefront of shaping the future of agriculture. Their ingenuity and willingness to embrace change are essential for addressing the evolving needs and challenges faced by modern farming. In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the role of women in animal husbandry, with increasing recognition of their management and decision-making capabilities. This brief explores the evolving landscape of women’s involvement in agricultural leadership positions and decision-making processes, supported by recent references.
Rise of Women in Agricultural Leadership:
Recent studies indicate a significant increase in the number of women assuming leadership roles in animal husbandry. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) published in 2023, women now make up nearly 43% of agricultural labor globally, with a substantial portion engaged in livestock farming.
Empirical Evidence of Women’s Decision-Making Power:
Research conducted by Wanyama et al. (2022) surveyed smallholder dairy farms in East Africa, revealing that women are actively involved in crucial decision-making processes related to livestock management. The study found that women often take the lead in matters such as animal healthcare, breeding, and feed management, highlighting their significant contributions to farm operations.
Barriers and Challenges:
Despite their growing presence in agricultural decision-making, women continue to face barriers such as limited access to resources, gender biases, and unequal distribution of power within farming households. A study by Kabeer and Natali (2021) identified persistent challenges hindering women’s ability to fully exercise their decision-making authority in animal husbandry, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these issues.
Impact on Farm Productivity and Sustainability:
Evidence suggests that farms where women have greater decision-making power tend to exhibit higher levels of productivity and sustainability. A recent meta-analysis by Agarwal (2023) synthesized findings from multiple studies worldwide and concluded that increasing women’s access to resources and decision-making authority in agriculture can lead to improved farm outcomes, including higher yields, better resource management, and enhanced resilience to environmental shocks.
Policy Implications and Future Directions:
Recognizing the pivotal role of women in animal husbandry, policymakers and stakeholders are increasingly focusing on promoting gender equality and empowerment initiatives within the agricultural sector. Recent policy frameworks, such as the Gender Action Plan for Agriculture (GAPA), aim to address gender disparities in access to resources, education, and decision-making power, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural landscape.
Factors Driving the Rise of Women in Agricultural Leadership:
- Changing Societal Attitudes: Shifting societal norms and attitudes towards gender equality have played a pivotal role in facilitating women’s entry into leadership positions within agriculture. Increased recognition of women’s capabilities and contributions has led to greater opportunities for them to excel in traditionally male-dominated roles.
- Education and Skill Development: Access to education and skill development programs has empowered women with the knowledge and expertise required to thrive in agricultural leadership roles. Initiatives focusing on training and capacity building have enabled women to acquire technical skills, leadership abilities, and business acumen essential for success in the sector.
- Supportive Policies and Programs: Implementation of policies and programs aimed at promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in agriculture has provided a conducive environment for women to assume leadership positions. Measures such as gender-sensitive agricultural policies, financial incentives, and support networks have helped break down barriers and fostered greater inclusivity.
- Technological Advancements: The integration of technology in agriculture has created new opportunities for women to engage in leadership roles. Technological innovations, such as digital farming tools and precision agriculture, have leveled the playing field, allowing women to leverage their skills and expertise to drive innovation and efficiency in farming practices.
Challenges and Opportunities:
- Gender Stereotypes and Bias: Deep-rooted gender stereotypes and biases continue to pose significant challenges for women aspiring to leadership roles in agriculture. Cultural norms, societal expectations, and institutional barriers often hinder women’s advancement, limiting their access to resources, decision-making platforms, and leadership opportunities.
- Limited Access to Resources: Women in agriculture often face constraints related to access to land, finance, markets, and technology, which impede their ability to fully participate in leadership roles. Addressing these disparities and ensuring equitable access to resources are crucial for enabling women to realize their potential as agricultural leaders.
- Work-Life Balance: Balancing leadership responsibilities with family and caregiving duties presents a persistent challenge for many women in agriculture. Flexible work arrangements, supportive policies, and initiatives promoting work-life balance are essential for retaining women in leadership positions and fostering their professional growth.
- Networking and Mentorship: Building strong networks and mentorship relationships can significantly enhance women’s leadership opportunities in agriculture. Creating platforms for networking, mentorship, and peer support enables women to share experiences, access guidance, and leverage opportunities for career advancement.
Conclusion:
Women’s roles in animal husbandry encompass a wide range of responsibilities, from hands-on care to management and innovation. Their contributions are vital for the success and sustainability of farming operations, shaping the future of agriculture through their dedication, creativity, and resilience. By empowering women in animal husbandry, we can foster a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector that benefits farmers, communities, and the environment alike. The rise of women in agricultural leadership represents a significant step towards achieving gender equality and sustainable development in the agricultural sector. By addressing systemic barriers, promoting inclusive policies, and fostering an enabling environment, stakeholders can unlock the full potential of women as leaders and catalysts for positive change in agriculture. Collaboration across sectors, investment in women’s empowerment, and concerted efforts to challenge gender norms are essential for realizing the vision of a more equitable and prosperous agricultural future.
References:
- Raitzer, D.A., and Samson, K. (Eds.). (2020). Gender in Agriculture. Springer.
- (2021). The State of Food and Agriculture 2021. Rome: FAO.
- World Bank. (2023). Women in Agriculture: Closing the Gender Gap for Development. Washington, DC: World Bank.
- UN Women. (2022). Empowering Women in Agriculture: A Framework for Action. New York: UN Women.
- (2023). Rural Women and Girls: Catalysts for Sustainable Development. Rome: IFAD.
