Abstract

In India the Self Help Groups (SHGs)are playing an important role in mainstreaming women in agriculture at the grassroot level. Be it social, economic, political or self-reliance, the Self-help group model operational at village level has created a powerful platform where women come together, share their common pains, vision and strives towards lading a life of dignity. In the country where agriculture is the backbone of nation’s economy, self-help group have progressively helped in creating a level playing field for women in agriculture and its value chain. The group association of women coming from heterogenous background, caste, creed, and economy helps them to negotiate and increases their bargaining power. Through the group affiliations women working in the field of agriculture gets an identity and opportunity to access improved knowledge related to agriculture practices and become part of financial inclusion programmes by government and agencies. Largely women who are “invisible” in agriculture gets increasing opportunity to be a part of level playing field in agriculture through the risk-taking capacity they share in their groups. SHGs is an innovative platform and is increasingly playing constructive role for mainstreaming and empowering women in agriculture.

Key words: Women Farmers, SHGs, Inclusion, Empowerment, Agriculture