Women Empowerment as a Component of Social

Secretary’s Message Dear Colleagues, I am deeply honoured to be the secretary of the Society of Krishi Vigyan (SKV).With a deep sense of gratitude, I express my heartfelt thanks to all members for reposing faith in my capabilities as the secretary of this society, since its inception in June 2011 to till date. I am extremely thankful to the editorial board members and peer reviewers for their constant encouragement and help extended to me in progress of Journal of Krishi Vigyan. There is no tool for development more effective than empowerment of women. The number of female scientists is steadily increasing but the big picture reflects that there number is still meagre. A study by Indian National Science Academy in 2004, revealed that percentage of women professors, associate professors and assistant professors in ICAR was 3.5, 6.2 and 10.4 % respectively. The under-representation of women in science, particularly at the senior levels of teaching and research in India, has become a serious cause of concern for women scientists and women policy planners. Hence there is a need to make women aware of a career in agriculture science as a possible option of career and then to retain them in the profession. With that, I applaud all the women scientists in the field of agriculture and encourage them to create a niche for themselves. I dedicate this special issue to women empowerment. The first issue of Journal of Krishi Vigyan, official journal of the Society of Krishi Vigyan was released in July, 2012. As a founder member and secretary of the society, I have witnessed the Society’s steady growth, thanks to the efforts of all its highly enthusiastic members. Presently, 200 scientists from different fields of agriculture from across the country have been enrolled as life members with the society but we would like to increase our membership and would be keen on suggestions from all of you. So, why should you be a SKV member and publish in Journal of Krishi Vigyan? Writing, editing and publishing are the heart and soul of research. For the benefit of society at large, information from a study should be made available

to it and be accessible by it easily. Dissemination of research work is imperative for it to become knowledge. With this view in mind, the editorial board has designed Journal of Krishi Vigyan. The Journal of Krishi Vigyan is the only multi disciplinary journal started mainly with the sole objective to spread knowledge and update the members with the latest technology that is available and can be transferred among the farming community by adopting different techniques. We encourage our young scientists working in research, teaching or extension schemes in the state agricultural universities, ICAR institutes or in NGO institutes to contribute and share their experiences. If that’s not enough consider some more reasons why you should publish with us viz. we will provide you results fast. Initial decisions are made in a few days, post-review decisions in about a month, and most articles go through only one round of revision. Our review process is pain free. The scientist editors who work for Journal of Krishi Vigyan will give you feedback that’s constructive and fair. If invited to revise your work, you’ll receive a single consolidated list of comments, so that you know exactly what you need to do to get your work published. Our publication is wide reach. Journal of Krishi Vigyan articles are immediately and freely available to the world through indianjournals.com. We, at Society are consistently working to integrate phenomenal opportunities offered by the digital technologies of today and tomorrow in our publications. Three years of our publishing activities are only the beginning of a great journey: please join us in making Journal of Krishi Vigyan, a journal that is truly conceived to serve agriculture science and scientists at its very best. Your membership and interest in our Society is what makes of Krishi Vigyan such a strong and vibrant organization. So, thank you once again for your continued support, and please don’t hesitate to let me know what you think will make us even better. (MANOJ SHARMA)

CONTENTS Sr. No. Title

Page No.

1.

Awareness Regarding Women Empowerment Programmes in Rural Households of Ludhiana. Jatinder Kaur Gill, Surinderjeet Kaur and Ritu Gupta

1

2.

Bee Keeping Enterprise Among Rural Men and Women in Moga District. Gagan Jyot Kaur and Jagbir Rehal

4

3.

Consumption Pattern of Green Leafy Vegetables by Rural Women in District Thiruvananthapuram. J R Krishnendu and B Prasannakumari

9

4.

Cultivation of Pusa Narangi Variety of Marigold for Crop Diversification and Empowering Farm Women in Malwa Plateau of Madhya Pradesh. Rekha Tiwari, D S Tomar, A K Dixit and A K Saxena

14

5.

Empowering Tribal Women Through Backyard Poultry in Bastar District of Chhattisgarh. A K Chaturvedani, Niranjan Lal, Khalid, N K Khyalia and Jitendra Pratap

19

6.

Empowerment of Self Help Group Members of Virudhunagar District Through Vocational Trainings on Mushroom Production. S Muthuramu, V K Paulpandi, S Sakthivel, K Ramakrishnan and R Karthik.

23

7.

Empowerment of Women Through Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) Cultivation. Sharmila Bharathi C, B Mohan, S Alagudurai, R Sangeetha, G Gohila and K Paneerselvam

27

8.

Ensuring Better Natural Resource Management Through Gender Mainstreaming. Amarinder Kaur

32

9.

Farm Women Empowerment Through Commodity Group Approach. Noorjehan A K Hanif and V Krishnamoorthi

40

10.

Farmers Driven Value Chain of Kadali Banana: A Gadget For Women Empowerment. R Sendilkumar

44

11.

Feminization of Agriculture: Reflections from the Female Participation in Training Programmes on Agriculture and Allied Activities. Manisha Bhatia and Jugraj Singh Marok

50

12.

Impact Assessment of Skill Development Programme For Rural Women in District Ludhiana. Prerna Kapila

55

Sr. No. Title

Page No.

13.

Impact of Trainings of Fruits and Vegetable Preservation on the Knowledge and Attitude of Rural Women. Kanta Sabharwal and R D Panwar

59

14.

Knowledge and Adoption Status of Training on Value Addition. R G Manjarekar, P M Mandavkar and M S Talathi

62

15.

Nutritional Evaluation of Quince Fruit and its Products. Sangita Sood and Mrinalini Bhardwaj

67

16.

On Farm Testing on Assessment of Different Type of Weeders in Direct Seeded Rice. Mouneshwari R Kammar and Pramod Katti

70

17.

Pull and Push Factors for Women Entrepreneurship in Thrissur District of Kerala. K A Sunandha

75

18.

Revival of Kasuti Embroidery Motifs in Knitted Kurties Through Computer Aided Designs. K Kaur and D Kaur

84

19.

Role of Women Fish Workers for Food Security in Assam. Deepjyoti Barua

89

20.

Social and Economical Empowerment of Rural Women Through Self Help Group Formation in Jaipur District of Rajasthan. Smita Bhatnagar and S S Rathore

94

21.

Social Approbation Towards Women Empowerment: A Glimpse. Gulzar S Sanghera, Lenika Kashyap, Gagandeep Kaur and Manoj Sharma

97

22.

Status of Women Empowerment in Assam.

105

Paramita Medhi Use of Improved Sickle for Drudgery Reduction in Farmwomen of Gir-Somnath District of Gujarat. Hansa S patel , A O Kher and Minakshi K Bariya

109

23.

24.

Women Empowerment as a Component of Social Responsibility in Participatory Varietal Selection. Parvaze A Sofi

113

25.

Women in Sugarcane Farming: Challenges and Opportunities. Gulzar S Sanghera and Manoj Sharma

119

DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00025.2

Awareness Regarding Women Empowerment Programmes in Rural Households of Ludhiana Jatinder Kaur Gill, Surinderjeet Kaur and Ritu Gupta Department of Family Resource Management College of Home Science Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana 141 004 (Punjab) ABSTRACT The government of India declared year 2001 as women empowerment year and launched many useful programmes for awakening women. The present study was an attempt to know utilization of these programmes by rural home-makers. The study was conducted in 60 rural households of two villages selected from two blocks of Ludhiana district. The results revealed that few respondents (18.3 %) were aware of the year of women empowerment as well as various empowerment programmes. Only 11.7 and 16.7 per cent were found having an awareness of Kishori Shakti Yojna and Sampooran Shiksha programmes, respectively. However, 30 per cent women started using women friendly technologies in their households for drudgery reduction and hence improving their quality of life. Further, none of the respondents was making use of credit facilities for starting their own enterprise to supplement family income as they were completely ignorant about various schemes. Schemes like Widow Pension Scheme, Maternity Benefits and Girl Child Benefits were fully utilized as these provide direct economic gains. Respondents strongly agreed that these programmes will make women aware of their rights but disagreed that these programmes will help to develop ability to make better decisions. They had no particular opinion whether these programmes will enable women to act as self sufficient. The suggestions from the respondents for the effective utilization of various schemes included expert guidance for starting any enterprise (96.7%) followed by training programme for elderly for changing their attitude towards women workforce participation (93.3%), programme for skill development (83.3%) and awareness generation programmes for credit facilities by government and non government organizations (86.7%). Key Words: Awareness, Women empowerment. Rural households, Development programmes. INTRODUCTION The process of women empowerment is multidimensional. It enables women to realize their full potential, empowers them in all spheres of life. Women’s empowerment, in fact, begins with the awareness about their rights and capabilities. Women play a pivotal role for the overall development of the family but still defied equal status. In order to equal opportunities, improve their overall status, to remove various gender biases, the government of India had declared year 2001 as women empowerment year and has launched many useful programmes for awakening women, who in turn can think of raising standard of living of their families.

Government has chalked out impressive programmes and enacted many laws to empower women but how far these were effective and being implemented could only decide the success of such programmes. Keeping all this in view, present study was intended with the objective to know the utilization of women empowerment programmes by rural home-makers, to know the opinion regarding various empowerment programmes for women and make suggestions for effective implementation of these programmes. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted in two blocks of Ludhiana district. One village from each block

Corresponding Author’s Email: [email protected]

J Krishi Vigyan 2015, 3(Special Issue) : 1-3

1

Gill et al Table 1. Distribution of respondents according to awareness and use of women empowerment programmes. (N=60)

Programme Knowledge regarding

Response Yes

No

a)

Declaration of year 2001 as Women Empowerment Year.

11 (18.3)

49 (81.7)

b)

Importance of year 2001, rights of women

10 (16.7)

50 (83.3)

c)

Kishori Shakti Yojana

7 (11.7)

53 (88.3)

d)

Credit facilities for starting an enterprise.

0 (0.00)

60 (100.0)

e)

Women friendly technology for drudgery reduction.

18 (30.0)

42 (70.0)

f)

Sampooran Shiksha Programme

10 (16.7)

50 (83.3)

Figures in parentheses indicate percentage.

was selected with the help of CDPO (Child Delopment Project Officer) of concerned block. Thirty women respondents of age group 20-50 yr were randomly selected from each village, thus making a sample of 60 respondents. The data were collected through structured interview schedule and presented with the help of simple percentage. Scoring technique was used to express opinions of home-makers. It was done by giving 3, 2, and 1 score to agree, neutral and disagree responses, respectively. The mean scores were calculated to express the findings. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION It was evident from the data (Table 1) that in rural areas, few home-makers (18.3%) were aware of declaration of year 2001 as women empowerment year. The data further revealed that only (16.7%) home- makers were aware of rights of women and Sampooran Shiksha Programme. There were only (11.7%) home-makers who were aware of Kishori Shakti Yojana, which aimed at empowering the teen-aged girls. As regards the

women friendly technologies, 30 per cent women started using the same in their homes for drudgery reduction and hence improving the quality of life. It was observed that none of the respondents wad making use of credit facilities for starting their own enterprise to supplement family income as they were totally ignorant about these schemes. Interestingly schemes like Widow Pension Scheme, Maternity benefits and Girl Child benefits were fully utilized by the women as these provide direct economic gains to them. Scores of opinion of respondents towards the women empowerment programme were given in table 2. The results revealed that the respondents strongly agreed to the statements that these programmes make women aware of their rights (2.63), will help them in fighting against discrimination (2.55) and also help in improving health of family members (2.33). whereas, they disagree with the statements that these programmes will help to develop ability to make better decisions and will provide equality of rights between women

Table 2. Opinion scores of respondents regarding the women empowerment programmes.

Sr. No. Statement These women empowerment programmes will i Make women aware of their rights ii Help women in fighting against discrimination iii Help in improving health of family members iv Help in getting financial aid from banks v Enable the women to act as self sufficient women vi Help in strengthening family relations vii Give women confidence to persue their goals viii Help to improve the status of women ix Provide equality of rights between women and men x Help to develop ability to make better decisions in the family 2


(N=60)

Score 2.63 2.55 2.33 2.16 2.03 1.96 1.95 1.93 1.86 1.86

Awareness Regarding Women Empowerment Programmes Table 3. Division of respondents according to their suggestions for proper implementation of these programmes.

Sr. No. Suggestion 1. 2. 3. 4.

Response

Government and NGO must play role for generating awareness about various schemes. Expert guidance should be made available at various stages for improving quality and marketing. Training programmes for elderly men and women of households for changing their rigid attitude towards women workforce participation. Training programme should be conducted for developing entrepreneurial skills.

Yes 52 (86.7)

No 8 (13.3)

58 (96.7)

2 (3.3)

56 (93.3)

4 (6.7)

5 (83.3)

10 (16.7)

Figures in parentheses indicate percentage.

and men. However, they had no specific idea about whether these programmes will enable women to act as self sufficient. Similarly statements like helps in strengthening family relations, give women confidence to pursue goals, help to improve the status of the women could get relatively low scores in terms of attaining overall betterment of the women folk. Suggestions for proper implementation of these programmes were also invited from the respondents. The data pertaining to this aspect was presented in table 3. The results revealed that the suggestions of respondents for better implementation of these schemes and programmes included provisions for expert guidance (96.7%) at the top most priority followed by training programme for elderly to change their rigid attitude for women workforce participation (93.3%). Empowerment of women also requires the participation and co-operation from men. We can catch up with the rest of the world through changing traditional mind-sets that accord women second class status in society

(Jayanthi, 2001). Further, 83.3 per cent of women desired training programmes for skill development and 86.7 per cent respondents about awareness generation programmes. All the respondents were of the opinion that these programmes if implemented in true spirit will definitely improve the quality of life and status of women. CONCLUSION Empowerment of women calls for strict and rigid implementation of all the programmes that have a bearing on their lives. Mere passing of laws and launching of welfare schemes have a little meaning for women. So, it can be concluded that careful planning and implementation of women empowerment programmes on the part of the government across the country with the cooperation of the civil society will go a long way in empowerment of women. REFERENCES Jayanthi C (2001). Empowering women. Yojna 45 : 32-40.

Received on 25/3/2015 Accepted on


15/4/2015

3

DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00026.4

Bee Keeping Enterprise Among Rural Men and Women in Moga District Gagan Jyot Kaur and Jagbir Rehal Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Moga 142 001 (Punjab) ABSTRACT A survey was conducted to evaluate the adoption trend of bee keeping as a subsidiary enterprise among the rural men and women in the district. The period taken in consideration was from year 2005 to 2014. All the beekeepers practiced bee keeping with Apis mellifera and before starting the enterprise the beekeepers took a formal training from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). Availability of flora, government policies and quick transfer of technology were important factors affecting the adoption in the area. The productivity of the boxes varied significantly depending upon the practice followed i.e., stationary or migratory. The average number of boxes owned by an individual outnumbered the number of subsidised boxes. A cluster of beekeepers was existing in the Baghapurana block and another upcoming cluster was located in Moga 1. The farmers were satisfied and wanted to start the enterprise due to quick returns, low investment and less time requirement. Rural women are showing an increased interest in getting the training and adopting the enterprise for enhancing the household income. Key Words: Bee keeping, Moga, Productivity, Survey, Bee keepers Cluster. INTRODUCTION Bee keeping is an important subsidiary enterprise which has an integral role in agriculture providing economic, nutritional and ecological balance to the rural India. In the past honey production was mainly dependent on four indigenous species viz. Apis cerena, Apis dorsata, Apis florae and Trigona sp. The attack of Thai Sac Brood Virus disease (TSBVD) in 1992 first identified in Karnataka lead to the eradication of Apis cerena , opening the other options. It was then that Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) scientist introduced an improved imported crossbreed honey bee Apis mellifera in Punjab. Slowly these species replaced all other due to better honey production and immunity against TSBVD. The present study was done with an objective to study the trend of beekeeping in the district, to evaluate the trend of women participation in the enterprise, to identify the bee keepers cluster and analyse the productivity of the honey bee hive. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted for a period from April 2005-March 2014 in the district Moga. The

district has 323 villages, divided into five blocks namely Moga1 (M1), Moga2 (M2), Nihal Singh Wala (NSW), Baghapurana (BG) and Kot Ise Khan (KIK) The beekeepers data were obtained from both the primary and secondary sources. The primary information was collected through household survey, which verified the information collected from group meetings and discussions. The secondary information was collected from other departments like Department of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture, bee breeders and various other organisations. A survey questionnaire was prepared reviewing relevant references and personal communications with apiculturists. Data analysis and Productivity evaluation: The collected data were managed and analysed using computer software, MS Excel. Productivity (kg/box) =

Total Honey Produced (kg) X 100 Total Number of boxes from which honey produced

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The data collected from the survey showed high population of bee keepers in Baghapurana


4


Kaur and Rehal Table 1. Number of beekeepers and bee boxes in the district.

Block Bagha Purana Nihal Singh Wala Kot Ise Khan Moga 1 Moga 2

Number of Bee Keepers

TotalNumber of Boxes

56 13 15 25 3

3,400 730 619 1,710 175

and Moga1 followed by Kot Ise Khan, Nihal Singh Wala and Moga 2. Minimum colonies (175) were reported in Moga 2 as it falls under urban and peri-urban region. It was reported that area under cultivation in Moga 1 is minimum (28,588 ha.) in comparison to other four blocks. Baghapurana tops the list with 4,91,345 ha.of cultivated area, followed by Kot Ise Khan (48,230.5 ha.), Nihal Singh Wala( 33,822 ha.) and Moga1(32,898 ha.). Baghapurana reported highest number of bee keepers (56) followed by Moga 1(25), Kot Ise Khan(15) and Nihal Singh Wala (13). It was found that number of beekeepers and number of boxes had a direct correlation (Table 1). As the number of bee keepers increased the number of boxes also increased. The average number of boxes owned per individual were 61 for Baghapurana, 56 for Nihal Singh Wala, 41 for Kot Ise Khan, 68 for Moga 1 and 58 for Moga 2. The block wise population and location of bee keepers in different villages is shown in Fig 1-4. Maximum number of beekeepers was reported in Malke (18), Samalsar (12) and Daudhar Garbi (11). The first two villages fall in Baghapurana and latter in Moga 1 block. Beekeepers with the highest number of boxes/ individual (61) were reported in Baghapurana forming a cluster. The number of beekeepers in Moga 1 are increasing rapidly and is predicted to be another upcoming cluster of bee keepers. Clusters grow faster in the presence of strong related neighbouring clusters and the increase in number of bee keepers would increase the bee colonies finally increasing the honey production, processing and packaging. The establishment of any industry depends upon the availability of raw material. With the increase in honey production in the area, it has scope for establishment of honey processing and packaging plant. A strong cluster of bee keepers exists in Baghapurana, encouraging the farmers to enhance the growth

Number of Boxes /Individual 61 56 41 68 58

opportunities with adoption of the beekeeping enterprise, other industries and clusters. The increase in bee keepers’ population could be mainly due to three factors namely flora, quick transfer of technology and government policies. Flora Flora is the key for the honey production and its products (royal jelly, propolis etc.). Its availability around the year is very important. There is a wide variation in the availability of desirable flora in five blocks due to different soil types. Soil type varies from sandy in Kot Ise Khan to medium and heavy soils in Baghapurana and Nihal Singh Wala. An area having a cropping pattern that includes oilseeds (mustard, sunflower), pear, cotton, arhar, eucalyptus, barseem in rotation results in higher honey production. Horticulture crops cover an area of 414 ha. in Moga with a production of 16,112 MT. Considering the fruit and vegetable production in these blocks it is highest in Kot Ise Khan (44,273 MT and 2,874 MT) followed by Baghapurana (3,290MT and 1,079 MT) and Nihal Singh Wala (3,267 MT and 713MT). Flora is an important factor which influences the productivity of the box. Farmers normally would follow (i) Migratory or (ii) Stationary bee keeping practice. In case of stationary beekeeping the boxes are kept in the fields at a fixed location restricting their movement, while in the other case the boxes are mobile and are moved from one location to another depending upon the availability of flora and conducive weather conditions. During the lean season when the flora is not available in abundance the bee farmers migrate the boxes to the adjoining areas of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu Kashmir and Rajasthan. The number of boxes owned by an individual affects the type of practice. It is observed that the farmers


5

Bee Keeping Enterprise Among Rural Men and Women

having higher number of boxes per individual practice migratory bee keeping for sustainability and economic benefit in comparison to farmers with small number of boxes (Table 1). Fig (1) shows Baghapurana reported maximum number of boxes (5,700) and the percentage of beekeepers practicing migration is also higher, similar trend was recorded for Moga 1. In Moga 2 there are no farmers practicing the stationary bee keeping. Comparing the productivity of the boxes in migration, highest productivity (22.05kg/box) was reported for Moga 1 followed by Kot Ise Khan (19.72kg/box), Nihal Singh Wala (18.8kg/box), Baghapurana (17.3kg/box) and Moga2 (14.72kg/ box) (Fig 2) while the productivity for beekeepers practicing stationary beekeeping was 5.81 for Moga 1, 13.3 for Kot Ise Khan, 10.0 for Nihal Singh Wala and 12.5kg/box for Baghapurana. The average productivity of stationary boxes to migratory boxes varied significantly from 8.3318.43 kg/box. The results were in agreement with those reported by Bhusall and Thappa (2005). Stationary boxes reported a significant difference in productivity varying from 5.8kg/box to 12.5 kg/box. It could be due to various reasons like bee keeping practice (single box/supers), pest infestation, lack of training and book keeping.

6

There is a high potential of increasing the honey yield in stationary boxes. (ii) Quick transfer of technology The geographical location confirms Moga1 proximity to Ludhiana and Baghapurana’s to Faridkot. This allows them to have access to neighbouring KVK’s. These institutes provide formal technical knowhow to start the enterprise. It was found that 90 per cent of bee keepers had acquired formal training in bee keeping from Govt recognised institution. The trend could be due to the present subsidy policy of government. For an individual to avail subsidy a bee keeping training is mandatory. The survey revealed majority of bee keepers took the training from their native district (Moga) and very few took it from the neighbouring districts Ludhiana, Bathinda and Faridkot (Fig 3). The data show that the number of women participants have increased from 1 (in 2009) to 26 (in 2014) which sums to an increase from 5 per cent (2009) to 17 per cent (2014) of women. This change in trend could be due to various factors like education, previous involvement of the family in bee keeping and subsidy. It was seen that 67 per cent of the participants fell in the age


Kaur and Rehal

group of 20-40 years, 3 per cent fell in the age group of under 20 and the remaining 30 per cent fell in the age group of 40-60 years. The 90 per cent of women were educated at least till the grade 10th and had shown an interest in engaging themselves in earning extra income through subsidiary occupation. Analysing the adoption trend in the Moga district during the last. Fig 4 shows the adoption was at a steady rate (under 5 from the year 19952005).The trend picked up from 2007 onwards which could be due to establishment of a bee keeping unit at the KVK farm and the availability of an expert to guide the individuals for quick adoption, bringing awareness among the rural youth and farmers in regards to the economic and environmental benefits. The economic benefit from honey has increased by 100 per cent during the last one decade. In the year 2005 the whole sale rate of honey was Rs 65/kg in comparison to Rs 130/kg in 2014. In the year 2013-14, training programs sponsored by the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) were hosted at KVK and other government departments to train more people in bee keeping and boost the self-employment avenues. Bee keeping trainings (vocational and short duration) were organised, more people were trained; their exposure and horizons widened and quick adoption took place. (iii) Government Policies Government has introduced various schemes under NHM (pollination support through beekeeping) to encourage the landless/marginal/small scale farmers to adopt it as subsidiary enterprise. A number subsidies are been given away under various schemes which includes subsidy on (i) bee colonies, (ii) bee hives, (iii) equipments and (iv) production of bee colonies by bee breeders. To avail the above subsidies (i, ii, iii) it is required that the applicant must have completed a formal training in basic bee keeping course (from SAU, KVK or Department of Agriculture) and its certificate should be furnished along with the completed form available from Department of Horticulture. To claim subsidy bee colonies and the hives should be purchased from the registered bee breeders. The Government has given license to thirty registered bee breeders in the state, who

are certified to commercially sell the bee keeping equipment and related material. From the list of thirty breeders, thirteen are located in Moga and adjoining districts (Bathinda, Faridkot and Ludhiana). Amongst them three are located in Moga; two in Baghapurana and one in Moga1 block. Presence of bee-breeders confirms easy availability of the bee keeping equipment (smoker, extraction unit, knives) bee keeping boxes, comb, protection gear, and is an important factor for cluster formation. To avail the subsidy the purchase bills should be attached along with the completed forms. Individual entitlement for subsidy is 50 boxes, considering the entire district an average of 57 boxes per individual was calculated, which out numbers the subsidised boxes (50 boxes/ individual). This implies that even if the farmer is getting subsidy on 50 boxes they are increasing the number of boxes (>50).The economic benefit (income enhancement) with low investment could be the major driving force for adoption. CONCLUSION Beekeeping is one of the most respected and satisfied subsidiary profession which can generate significant secondary income to beekeepers. The location of Moga district is appropriate for the bee keeping and number of bee keepers has increased which could be due to cumulative effect of low investment, government policies, less labour intensive and expert guidance in close vicinity. An upcoming trend of women participation in adoption of bee keeping as an enterprise has come up and the women belonging to reserved category needs to be encouraged for enterprise adoption. It is significant that an individual owns an average of 57 boxes in the district which out numbers the subsidised boxes (50). This trend shows wide popularisation and acceptance of the enterprise among the farmers. The average productivity of the stationary box is significantly low which can be improved by incorporating diversification in cropping pattern and timely management of hives during the lean period. High population (clusters) of bee keepers were found close to the location of bee breeders. The breeders play an important role in adoption of the enterprise so the government should try to introduce policy


7

Bee Keeping Enterprise Among Rural Men and Women

allowing at least one bee breeder in each block. Kot Ise Khan block has a favourable conditions for bee keeping, recording the highest average productivity. Special training program or camps should be organised to encourage farmers in the area for its adoption. Government has taken an initiative to widen the earning horizons of small

8

and marginal farmer which are bearing fruits as the adoption is increasing. REFERENCES Bhusal S J and Thapa R B (2005). Comparative study on the adoption of improved beekeeping technology for Poverty alleviation . J Inst Agric Anim Sci 26:117-125.

Received on 05/8/2014 Accepted on 10/03/2015


DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00027.6

Consumption Pattern of Green Leafy Vegetables by Rural Women in District Thiruvananthapuram J R Krishnendu and B Prasannakumari Department of Home Science College of Agriculture, Vellayani- 695 522, Kerala Agricultural University ( Kerala) ABSTRACT The present study was conducted with the objective of promoting consumption of green leafy vegetables among rural women through an intensive educational programme employing participatory techniques. The impact of this programme was assessed after three months by conducting a post test. The results showed that there was a significant gain in knowledge and change in attitude of the respondents thus pointing out the positive impact of the nutrition education programme. The post test revealed a significant change in the consumption of green leafy vegetables by the respondents. Locally available leafy vegetables were found to be included in the supplementary feeding programme of the five selected anganwadi centers. The study proved that this programme can be successfully implemented in all anganwadi centers of the state. The increase in the actual green leafy vegetable consumption will surely help to alleviate the micronutrients deficiency prevalent in the state especially among women and children. Key Words: Green leafy vegetables, Anganwadi workers, Awareness programme, Nutrition. INTRODUCTION Green leafy vegetables represent an excellent component of the habitual diet and a daily intake of at least 100g of fresh green leafy vegetable has been recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR, 1999). India’s flora comprises of 6,000 species of plants used for consumption, one third of which are green leafy vegetables. Leafy vegetables not only supply the protective nutrients, add variety to a monotonous diet but also have an alternative taste, pleasing appearance and aroma. Green leafy vegetables are also inexpensive and locally available and studies have proved that their consumption can be improved greatly if people are convinced of the necessity for including them in the diet. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted in rural area of Athiyannoor ICDS Block in Thiruvananthapuram district. Hundred rural women who were participants of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme selected from five Anganwadi centers of Athiyannoor formed the study sample. Knowledge about green leafy

vegetables and their nutritive and health benefits was collected from the respondents through a knowledge test developed for the purpose. Data on consumption of green leafy vegetables and nutrition related practices of the respondents were assessed using an interview schedule. In order to measure the knowledge level of the rural women regarding green leafy vegetables, a nutrition knowledge test was developed by means of a simple teacher made objective type test constructed following the procedure adopted by Kumar (1990) with slight modifications. Care was taken to ensure that the questions covered the entire range of subject matter selected for the study. An item pool of 35 statements relevant to green leafy vegetables on selected areas such as nutritive needs, nutritive value, medicinal importance, bioavailability and antinutrient factors was prepared. These statements were prepared from relevant literature. Both positive and negative statements were formed. Care was taken to use simple and clear statements with no ambiguity in language or idea to avoid confusion and doubts. A jury of subject experts analyzed the statements.



9

Krishnendu and Prasannakumari

In light of the suggestions made by experts, 25 statements were selected and were pre-tested. Based on the result of the pre-test five statements were discarded and remaining 20 items were selected for constructing the knowledge test. The responses were collected in a dichotomous pattern i.e., Yes or No. Each correct response was given a score of one and the incorrect response was given a score of zero. Finally the scores were added up to get the knowledge score for each respondent. The maximum score for the test developed was 20 and the minimum score was 0. Frequency of use of different leafy vegetables in the dietaries of respondents was also assessed. Frequency of use of leafy vegetable was measured using a 6 point rating scale. The frequency score of use of each leafy vegetable used by the respondents was calculated separately using the formula suggested by Reaburn et al (1979). Percentage of total score for each green leafy vegetable R1S1+R2S2+R3S3+….........................………RnSn n S1: Scale of rating given for frequency of use of a green leafy vegetable (i=1, 2, 3, ……….5) R1: Per centage of respondents coming under each frequency group (i=1, 2, 3,……………5) n: Maximum scale rating (n = 6 ) The mean value calculated using the formula given below Mean score for each green leafy vegetable =R1S1+R2S2+R3S3+…………………………RnSn 100 The percentage of respondents using each green leafy vegetable and also their preference were thus ascertained. Based on the knowledge and consumption practices, the rural women were imparted nutrition communication employing participatory approaches. This was achieved by means of discussions, demonstrations on leafy vegetable preparations, video show on different types of leafy vegetables and their nutritive value and distribution of leaflets so as to improve consumption of micronutrient rich green leafy vegetables. Finally, in order to assess the impact of the programme post test was conducted among 10

the subjects to gain information regarding knowledge gained and also change in consumption practices of green leafy vegetables. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The present study emphasized the need for utilization of green leafy vegetables as a source of micro-nutrients and as a home based remedy and preventive measure for widely prevalent deficiency diseases. Use of green leafy vegetables by the respondents Data presented (Table 1) revealed that coriander and curry leaves were the only leaves used by the respondents even though these cannot be considered as leafy vegetables of nutritive significance in the diet considering the amounts consumed. Cabbage and amaranthus were found to be consumed thrice a week by 16 and 15 per cent, respectively. Red and green amaranthus, drumstick leaves and cabbage were consumed twice a week by 22, 10, 16 and 21 per cent respectively. Cauliflower was consumed once a week by 16 per cent. Agathi and chekkurmanis were consumed occasionally, 27 and 77 per cent of respectively by the respondents. Basella (Valli cheera) which is a locally available leafy vegetable was not consumed at all by 94 per cent of the respondents. Cowpea leaf, water leaf (Sambar cheera) and agathi were never used by 88, 81 and 73 per cent of the respondents. From the table 1 it can also be seen that the highest food frequency score were obtained by coriander and curry leaves (82.4 and 94). Cabbbage obtained the next highest score of 60.6 followed by red amaranthus (58.4), drumstick leaf (53.2), green amaranth (52.0), cauliflower (46.4), chekkurmanis (45.0), agathi (25.4), water leaf (24. 4), cowpea leaf (22.4) and Basella 21.2 respectively. Leafy vegetables are rich sources of minerals like iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, and vitamins like A, C, E and K and many of the B vitamins. When consumed regularly they can substantially improve micronutrient status of the Indian population (Gupta and Prakash 2009).Green leafy vegetables also contain many helpful phytochemicals or phytofactors in scavenging the dreadful free radicals generated as metabolic byproducts in alleviating many serious diseases (Kaur and Maini, 2006).


Consumption Pattern of Green Leafy Vegetables by Rural Women Table1. Consumption of green leafy vegetables by the respondents.

Green leafy vegetables Red amaranthus Green amaranth Drumstick leaf Agathi Water leaf Cowpea leaf Cabbage Basella Cauliflower Chekkurmanis Coriander Curry leaves

Daily (%)

Thrice a week (%)

Twice a week (%)

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 46 70

10 5 8 0 0 0 16 0 0 3 34 30

22 10 16 0 0 0 21 0 8 6 18 0

Dietary surveys conducted among different segments of the population revealed that consumption of green leafy vegetables is much lower than the recommended dietary allowance of 100g/d. National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (2000) Survey of Kerala also revealed that consumption of green leafy vegetables was grossly inadequate particularly among preschool children. Data indicated that even low cost and locally available leafy vegetables like amaranth, drumstick leaves, agathi and chekkurmanis not consumed daily by most of the respondents. The traditional green leafy vegetables like ponnaviram and lettuce leaf are never used by the respondents. Ponnaviram leaves are the good source of protein and fibre as compared to the other green leafy vegetables. However now it is not consumed due the pungent smell of the ponnaviram leaves. It is also revealed that more than 70 per cent of the respondents never consumed agathi leaf, water leaf, cowpea leaf and basella which have been used traditionally. Vitamin A rich leafy vegetables like amaranth, cabbage and drumstick leaves which are locally available were used by 60 per cent of the respondents. Most of the respondents stated that plucking of drumstick leaves for preparing dish was a time consuming process so they avoided the use of drumstick leaves in their daily diet. All this may be mainly due to their ignorance about the nutritional value of these leaves.

(n=100)

Once a Occasionally week (%) (%) 18 25 10 0 3 0 13 0 16 4 2 0

50 60 66 27 16 12 50 6 76 87 0 0

Never (%)

Frequency score

0 0 0 73 81 88 0 94 0 0 0 0

58.4 52.0 53.2 25.4 24.4 22.4 60.6 21.2 46.4 45.0 82.4 94.0

It was evident from the result that majority of respondents used colocasia leaves, chekkurmanis, cowpea leaf and water leaf only occasionally. Cauliflower is a vegetable grown in cold climate and is not easily available in the local market. Also, the cost factor of cauliflower may be another reason for it being occasionally used by the respondents. However other leafy vegetables are available but their consumption was also found to be low among the respondents. Similar results have been reported by Unnithan (2008), Ramlath (2007). Similar study done by Kumari and Singh (2001) on secondary school children also reported that green leafy vegetables are inadequate in adolescent diet. Distribution of subjects based on their knowledge score Data (Table 2) showed the mean score for knowledge for pre test was 14.81 while for the post test it increased to 18.69. Result of the paired t- test shows that the gain in knowledge was significant at 1 per cent level. From the score obtained for post test it is clear that there was significant gain in their knowledge. This may be because of the effectiveness of intervention programme. The respondents were exposed to multimedia education programme like video show, charts, leaflets which enabled them to understand the importance of green leafy vegetables.


11

Krishnendu and Prasannakumari Table2: Gain in knowledge of the respondents (n=100)

Group Pre test Post test

Mean score 14.81 18.69

Gain in knowledge 18.27**

Several studies have shown that nutrition education and intervention increases the nutritional knowledge of the respondents (Razeena, 2000). Meenambigar and Seetharaman (2003) in their study on role of media in rural communication concluded that an appropriate combination of communication media can make people apply knowledge as well and motivate them to seek more information. Changes in Frequency of use of green leafy vegetables Summative evaluation was conducted to find out the change in green leafy vegetable consumption of the respondents after the participation in the nutrition communication programme. Pre and post education scores of the frequency of use per cent of leafy vegetables consumption given in the table 3 reveal that there was an increase in the frequency of use of green leafy vegetables. Frequency scores of other leafy vegetables like agathi leaf, water leaf (sambar leaf), cowpea leaf and basella were less than 30. After the intervention it can be seen that consumption of

cauliflower and cabbage was reduced while use of all the other leafy vegetables increased. The t value calculated shows that there was significant change in the consumption of leafy vegetables after the intervention. After the intervention programme, the leafy vegetable consumption of the respondents was assessed once again by conducting diet survey. The result showed that the frequency of use of green leafy vegetables by the respondents who participated in the nutrition intervention increased significantly in the present study. After the intervention programme the most frequently used leafy vegetables were found to be curry leaves, coriander leaves, amaranth, drumstick leaves, agathi, sambar leaves (water leaf) and cowpea leaves. This may be due to the fact that the respondents became aware of the nutritive value of locally available green leafy vegetables. Similar studies by Gopalan (2000) and Hemalatha and Prakash (2002) also proved that respondents who participated in nutrition intervention improved their frequency of consumption of green leafy vegetables. Result of the paired t- test shows that the gain in knowledge was significant at 1 per cent level. From the score obtained for post test it is clear that there was significant gain in their knowledge due to nutrition intervention programme. The study proved that nutrition communication

Table3. Use of green leafy vegetables by the respondents before and after the intervention. (n= 100) Green leafy vegetable Red amaranth Green amaranth Drumstick leaf Agathi leaves Water leaf Cowpea leaf Chekkurmanis Cabbage Basella Cauliflower Coriander leaf Curry leaf

Frequency of use Before intervention After intervention Frequency score Mean score Frequency score Mean score 58.4 52 53.2 25.4 24.4 22.4 45 60.6 21.2 46.4 82.4 94

2.920 2.580 2.660 1.270 1.220 1.120 2.250 3.030 1.060 2.320 4.120 4.700

63.4 57.4 64.6 32 35 26.2 47.6 59.4 23 45.2 86.6 100

** Significant at 1 per cent level ; * Significant at 5 per cent level 12


3.170 2.770 3.220 1.600 1.750 1.310 2.380 3.140 1.250 1.260 4.310 5.000

‘t’ value 4.890** 2.374* 5.668** 6.193** 9.192** 4.533** 2.802** 1.521** 4.533** 1.179** 2.802 2.730**

Consumption Pattern of Green Leafy Vegetables by Rural Women

programmes can be successfully implemented for rural women through anganwadi centers of the state. The increase in the green leafy vegetable consumption will surely help to alleviate the micronutrient deficiencies prevalent in the state especially among women and children. CONCLUSION Leafy vegetables are rich sources of minerals like iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, and vitamins like A, C, E and K and many of the B vitamins. When consumed regularly they can substantially improve the micronutrient status of the Indian population. Green leafy vegetables also contain many helpful phyto-chemicals or phytofactors in scavenging the dreadful free radicals generated as metabolic byproducts in alleviating many serious diseases. The present study revealed that the frequency use of green leafy vegetables was low initially but after intervention it increased significantly. Initially, low level of consumption observed may due to lack of awareness regarding importance of green leafy vegetables in the diet which was improved by giving proper nutrition education.

Gupta S and Prakash J (2009). Studies on Indian green leafy vegetable for their antioxidant activity. Pt Fd Hum Nutr 64: 39-45. Hemalatha K and Prakash J (2002). An awareness creation programme for women on nutrition through green leafy vegetables. Ind J Nutr Dietet 40:64-66. Indian Council of Medical Research (1999). Nutrient Requirements and Recommended Dietary Allowances for Indians. National Institute of Nutrition. Hydrabad.11-67. Kaur N and Maini D (2006). Impact of nutrition councelling on the knowledge, attitude, and practice scores of at risk coronary heart diseases subjects. Ind J Nutr Dietet 43:82-89. Kumari P and Singh U (2001). Impact of supplementation of quality protein maize ladoos on the nutritional status of pregnant women. Ind J Nutr Dietet 28:48-54. National Nutrition Monitorig Bureau Reports, 2000. http:// www. nnmbindia.org. Ramlath P (2007). Effect of counseling under dietary habit of fisher folk. M.Sc. (H.Sc) thesis, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur,17-99. Razeena K A ( 2000). Impact of educational programmes on the health and dietary practices of the workers of sewage farm in Thiruvananthapuram. M.Sc. (HSc) thesis, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur,17-79. Reburn J A, Krondle M and Lau D ( 1979). Social determinants in food selection. Am J Dietet 74: 637- 42.

REFERENCES

Santhoshkumar S (1990). An experimental study on the relative effectiveness of selected visual aids in teaching neoliterate. M. Sc. (Ag) thesis, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur.198p.

Gopalan C (2000). Health and nutrition education of the community choosing the appropriate channels. Nutrition foundation of India bulletin, New Delhi. P 28.

Unnithan A G ( 2008). Contributing factors and problems associated with overweight among rural and urban school children, Ph.D thesis KAU, Thrissur. 140-147p.



13

DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00028.8

Cultivation of Pusa Narangi Variety of Marigold for Crop Diversification and Empowering Farm Women in Malwa Plateau of Madhya Pradesh Rekha Tiwari, D S Tomar , A K Dixit and A K Saxena Krishi Vigyan Kendra, (Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya) Ujjain 456 010 (Madhya Pradesh) ABSTRACT Flower cultivation is a profitable venture for the small and marginal farmers, as the traditional crops are becoming less remunerative. Marigold cultivation in rural areas by farm women suits the most as it requires care and nurturing, picking and packing with care in which the female workers have an edge over the male counterparts. Cultivation of marigold variety Pusa Narangi in Malwa plateau of Madhya Pradesh has successfully demonstrated that this crop can be grown round the year. The variety was introduced in the year 2007 and was assessed through on farm trials, followed by front line demonstrations for three consecutive years. The present study was undertaken to assess the benefits of cultivating Pusa Narangi variety of marigold for crop diversification and boosting the income of farm women exclusively for which they were imparted practical training on the package of practices and marketing strategy. The result showed that round the year cultivation yielded 1.25 t/ ha and giving a net profit Rs 1,17,609/- as against Rs 35,975/- with the local cultivar Saathi. Hence, it can be stated that this was a novel diversification model to economically empower the farm women on sustainable basis. Key Words: Marigold, Participatory Rural Appraisal, Farm Women. INTRODUCTION: The Government of India has taken several initiatives for Women’s Empowerment by passing a policy, much of the rural women’s work has not been accounted in official statistics. Women’s limited ability to own land and property negatively affects their ability to participate in producer groups, receive income for their labour, and benefit from agricultural services (Ellis et al, 2007). The growth in agricultural in the country has been associated with an increase in female employment, a process that is often claimed to enhance women’s empowerment. However, empowerment is a contested concept and several studies have highlighted that far from empowering workers, employment can often be precarious, exploitative and harmful.

to the east and Maharashtra to the south, and Gujarat to the west. The State is primarily an agriculture State. About 73 per cent population of the state is rural; hence agriculture is the main stay of the state economy. The Agriculture and allied services contributes about 44 per cent share in state economy and 78 per cent of its working force is directly engaged in agriculture. In recent years, greater emphasis has been given to horticultural sector and at present state is producing about 7.69 MMT of horticulture produce from an area of 0.75 M ha. The major share of horticulture produce is from vegetables (48.1%), fruits (43.8%) and only 8.1 per cent from flowers. Flower cultivation in peri urban areas accounts to 9.16 M ha with total production of 7.14 MT and a poor productivity of mere 0.78 MT per ha.

Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state and ranks seventh in population, located centrally surrounded by the states of Rajasthan to the northwest, Uttar Pradesh to the north, Chhattisgarh

Ujjain district of Madhya Pradesh lies in the Malwa plateau region characterized by low rainfall, recurrent drought with a frequency of one in every four years and three out of five years


14


Tiwari et al

receive sub-optimal rainfall i.e. below 890 mm. This poses a serious situation for the farmers particularly the small and marginal farmers whose earnings are not sustainable owing to lack of crop and enterprise diversification. Agriculture can be an important engine of growth and poverty reduction but the sector is underperforming because women, who are often a crucial resource in agriculture and the rural economy, face constraints that reduce their productivity. To take care of this precarious situation, Krishi Vigyan Kendra took an intervention among the farm women who could exclusively devote their time, energy and land for the cultivation of flowers particularly the marigold which has round the year demand in the holy city of Ujjain for garland and decorative purposes at various kinds of religious and social functions. Keeping this in mind, the study was conducted to know personal and economic characteristics of the farm women, to introduce new variety of marigold- Pusa Narangi and to assess the income generation by adopting this new variety of marigold. MATERIALS AND METHODS Selection of Village The cultivation of flowers is predominant in two major blocks of the district Ujjain and Ghatiya; hence they were selected for the present study based on their area and production. Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) was used to access the real information of the village and villagers. The farming pattern of the village was assessed in which the cultivators group was categorised in grain, cereal, potato, vegetable and flower cultivator etc. Among them the major group of flower cultivator were approached. The main focus was given on those groups where women either participated or were fully engaged in all the process of cultivation of flowers. Package of Practices Full package of practices were adopted by the target group. The land was ploughed once followed by cross harrowing and planking and the soils were medium black having good water retention capacity. Farm yard manure was incorporated at the rate of 10 t/ha followed by

recommended dose of N: P: K @ 150:80:100 kg/ ha. Nursery was raised under raised beds with low tunnel poly-house arrangement. Raised beds were prepared prior to transplanting with a width of 75 cm and plants were transplanted at a spacing of 60 cm followed by 2 to 3 manual weeding to take care of weeds. To facilitate irrigation and promote healthy growth water was applied in furrows. After 45-50 days nipping was done to promote growth of lateral branches and check the apical dominance and get more flower buds per plant. A well structured questionnaire was prepared for assessing the information and data. The questionnaire was fulfilled through personal interaction of each farm women. The main focus was given on the age group also and the selected group was not more than 45 years. The experiment was conducted by taking two treatments as under: Treatment (T1): In the Malwa region local variety of Marigold -Saathi is very popular but from the economic point of view its production was not satisfactory. Hence for replacing the Saathi variety, a new variety of marigold was introduced. Treatment (T2): Pusa Narangi variety from IARI was first assessed at farmer’s field in the year 2008. This variety was chosen as varietal intervention along with full package of practice and having the following traits such as, attractive price in market due to appealing saffron colour, big size, compact and each petal well shaped, good keeping quality(4-5 days) and high yield as compared to the local variety. An area of 0.4 ha was chosen for this intervention. Farm women were provided with 150 g seed to raise the nursery. Seedlings of about 35 to 40 d were transplanted on ridges and furrows. Nipping of the plot was done after the initiation of first flower bud to break the apical dominance and promote branching and more bud formation. Regular plant protection measures were adopted till the last picking and the last flush was allowed to mature to form the seed for the successive year. The data recorded on various parameters of growth, flower attribute, yield attributes and flower yield were subjected to statistical analysis (Panse and Sukhatme, 1989).


15

Cultivation of Pusa Narangi Variety of Marigold

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Personal profile of farm women Personal characteristics and profile of the selected farm women as depicted in the Table 1 gives a clear indication that the age of the farm women varied between 20 yr at the lower level and 45 yr at the upper age limit. Among them maximum farm number of women ( 37.5 %) belonged to age group more than 35 yr whereas only (05) women were of 31 -35 age group category. A total of 35 women were young coming in the age group (20-25 years). Nine women were between 26-30 yr. In case of literacy level, it was evident that in rural areas, still education of women’s is neglected phenomenon as in the other part of the country and the same was reflected in the PRA. None of the farm women had even passed high school. Fourty per cent farm women were illiterate and 40 per cent were educated up to primary school. Only 8 women (20 %) had

passed middle school examination. An important fact which came to the notice was that nuclear family system was growing faster in the rural areas also and not a phenomenon limited to the urban areas exclusively. The data revealed that 25 families (62.5 %) lived in the nuclear family whereas only 15 farm women (17.5 %) belonged to the joint family system. This means that due to certain socio-economic and personal reasons craze of nuclear family pattern was increasing in rural area very drastically. Sixty per cent families had 4-6 family members and only 10 per cent had more than 7 members at home. Land holding Land holding in the village ranged between 1 to 5 ha/ family. Maximum number (32.5%) of the families had small land holding i.e. 1 to 2 ha and minimum (17.5 %) owned more than 4 ha/family. Hence, the economic condition of the village was

Table 1. Personal profile of the selected farm women.

Parameter No. of Respondents(N=40) Age (yr.) 20-25 14 26-30 09 31-35 02 35and above 15 Education Not Literate 16 Up to Primary 16 Middle School 08 High School 00 College 00 Family type Nuclear 25 Joint 15 No. of members 1-3 12 4-6 24 >7 04 Land holding (ha) 1.0 - 2.0 13 2.0 -3.0 10 3.0 -4.0 10 4.0 and more 07 Income of the family (000) 0.8-1.0 06 1.0-2.0 18 2.0 and more 16

Percentage

Mean + SD

35.0 22.5 05.0 37.5

30.725 + 8.56 (20 to 45)

40.0 40.0 20.0 00.0 00.0

1.825 + 1.824 (0 to 6)

73.281

3.328

62.5 37.5 30.0 60.0 10.0 32.5 25.0 25.0 17.5 15.0 45.0 40.0

4.475 + 1.432 (2 to 7) 2.838 + 1.009 (1 to 5) 2.025 + 0.838 (0.8 to 4.0)

(Figures in the parenthesis indicates the maximum and minimum value) 16

Variance


2.051

1.018

0.701

Tiwari et al Table 2. Growth parameters and yield of marigold variety pusa narangi.

Treatment T1: (Sathi) T2: (Pusa Narangi) Coefficient of Variation CD (0.05)

Height (cm) 68.3 99.448 2.99 1.13

Branches /Plant Flowers/Plant 3.678 6.085 8.24 0.18

17.12 28.25 3.72 0.38

Table 3. Economics of marigold cultivation. Treatment Cost Of Cultivation (Rs/ha) T1: (Sathi) 18,636 T2: (Pusa Narangi) 23,752 Coefficient of Variation 9.16 CD (0.05) 878.5

Gross Income (Rs/ha) 55,053 1,41,362 19.58 8701.2

also not very satisfactory. The per annum income of the family was 0.8- 4 lac. Maximum number of the family fell in the income range of 1- 2 lac (45 %) while 15 per cent families earned only 0.8 – 1 lac per annum. Hence, it was clear that, the landholding of the villagers was less and hence could be designated under the marginal category. So, in order to boost the economic viability a shift in the existing crop through diversification and introduction of the new crop and variety with reasonable market opportunity was essential keeping in view about the age group and literacy level. Performance of crop and economic outcome The data (Table 2) indicated that the existing local cultivar Saathi was out performed by the variety Pusa narangi in all the crop growth parameters. The improved variety was significantly taller than the local by more than 31 cm. Similarly, T2 had significantly more number of branches thus giving more floral buds and flowers per plant. Both these parameters were higher over T1 by 65 per cent. Data further revealed that the yield of T2 varied significantly and was higher by 126 per cent. This was probably due to the scientific package of practice followed in T2 along with prolonged duration of flowering spread over 90 d as against on 45 to 60 d in the local cultivar. Besides this, T2 was found suitable for growing in this agro-climate for almost nine months in succession except the period from April to June when the irrigation facilities are limited in

Flower Dia. cm Yield qt / ha 3.14 5.36 10.83 0.21

Net Income (Rs/ha) 35,975 1,17,609 25.03 8693.9

56.49 128.52 19.09 7.99

Benefit Cost ratio 2.9 6.0

this part of the malwa plateau. The above findings were in line with the findings of Yadav et al (2000) and Kumar et al ( 2009). Table 3 depicted the cost involved in the cultivation of both the cultivars which vary significantly because of the fact that the farmers grow the local cultivar with least input in terms of manure and fertilizer. Further this variety is restricted in its growing period from August to October, so the tendency of the farmer is to grow it with least input, harvest it around the Diwali festival and make some money. After that period they had no alternative for marigold. T2 variety has given an almost round the year option for the farmers and farm women for the most demanded flower in this region. The cost of cultivation per quintal of T2 was Rs 184/- as against Rs 329/under T1. The initial cost in terms of input in T2 may seem to be higher but the total net return as a result of higher yield leads to a benefit cost ratio of 6.0 as against only 2.9 inT1. Larger sized flower as depicted in table 2 also fetched handsome price in the market as compared to T1 and hence was more viable, economical and an alternative to higher income to the family in a staggered manner on a continuous basis. CONCLUSION It can be concluded that all category of farmers particularly farm women if devote a small piece of land to flower cultivation, round the year the net income of the family can be increased many folds. Higher B:C ratio suggested that the


17

Cultivation of Pusa Narangi Variety of Marigold

enterprise was viable and the continuous demonstrations of farmers field suggested that the yields were sustainable and sufficient to meet the price fluctuations when averaged over longer period of time in a year, particularly if the crop was grown in succession for more than nine months.

Kumar Dhiraj, Singh B P and Singh Vivekanand (2009). Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth, flowering behaviour and yield of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. African Giant Double Orange. J Hortl Sci 4 (2): 134-137

REFERENCES

Panse V G and Sukhatme P V (1989). Statistical methods for agricultural workers. 5th ed., ICAR, New Delhi.

Ellis A, Cutura J, Dione N, Gillson I, Manuel C and Thongori G (2007). Gender and Economic Growth in Kenya: Unleashing the Power of Women. Washington, D.C., World Bank.

Govindasamy Agoramoorthy , Minna J Hsu (2012). Impact of floriculture development enhances livelihood of India’s rural women. Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics 113 ( 1) : 69–76.

Yadav P K, Singh S, Dhindwal A S and Yadav M K (2000). Effect of nitrogen and FYM application on floral characters and yield of African marigold. Haryana J Hort Sci 29:69-71

Received on 29/12/2014

18


Accepted on 15/04/2015

DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00029.X

Empowering Tribal Women Through Backyard Poultry in Bastar District of Chhattisgarh A K Chaturvedani, Niranjan Lal, Khalid, N K Khyalia and Jitendra Pratap Division of Extension Education Indian Veterinary Research Institute Izatnagar, Bareilly- 243 122 (Uttar Pradesh) ABSTRACT This study was carried out in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. A multi-stage random sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents from 10 villages of two blocks. A structured interview schedule duly pre-tested and validated was used to elicit information from the respondents during February to April, 2014. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage. It was found that majority of the poultry growers have primary to secondary level education and small size family. Agriculture was noticed as primary (51.7%) and poultry as secondary occupation (35.4%) with average flock size of 13.3±4.2 desi birds , reared with locally available materials at the household level. The egg productivity of desi birds was 36.5±0.2 eggs and selling price @ Rs 7.0±0.07/egg in local market whereas body weight gain was 1.4±0.02 kg/ bird/yr and selling price @ Rs 310.2±2.1/kg live bird. It was also observed that involvement of women was more in housing ,feeding, breeding, health care, marketing and consumption than joint and collective participation of family members which contributed to a large extent in increasing the household income of a small family. Later on, this income generated from backyard poultry rearing was invested for household, poultry production and recreation purposes depending upon the felt needs. From this study, it can be concluded that the backyard poultry rearing with full participation of rural women helped in empowering women’s of tribal communities in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. Key Words: Women, Backyard Poutry, Egg, Meat, Management Practices. INTRODUCTION Backyard poultry is an important livelihood component of rural tribal’s, providing valuable animal protein source through egg and meat and aid in economic improvement by providing subsidiary income. Market oriented backyard poultry enterprises are being recognized as a stepping stone for the poorest households enabling them to take the first step towards breaking out of the vicious circle of poverty and deprivation. There is also growing evidence to demonstrate the role of rural poultry farming in enhancing the food and nutrition security of the poorest households, reducing the livelihood vulnerability and insecurity and promotion of gender equity (Ahuja and Sen, 2007) Chhattisgarh State has about 142.45 lakh total poultry population. The estimated number of

layers in Chhattisgarh was 62.6 lakh and egg production about 12,385 lakh during the year 2011-12. Average productivity per layer was 198 eggs/yr and per capita availability was 52 eggs. In Bastar district, about 70 per cent of the total population is tribes which is 26.8 per cent of the total tribal population of Chhattisgarh state. The major tribes of the Bastar region are the Gond, Abhuj Maria, Bhatra, Halbaa, Dhurvaa, Muria and Bison Horn Maria. Gonds are also the largest tribal group of central India. The Bastar Integrated Livestock Development Project (BILDP), implemented by the Government of Chhattisgarh and initially supported by the Danish International Development Assistance (DANIDA), made an effort to enhance livelihood based on indigenous poultry rearing. The experience from the project showed how simple,



19

Chaturvedani et al Table 1. Production potential of backyard poultry farming. Parameter Bakawan(n=60) Av. flock size (No.) 12.8±4.2 Av. age of maturity (weeks) 27.6±2.5 Av. egg production/yr/ bird (No.) 35.9±1.9 Av. selling price/ egg ( Rs) 6.9±0.8 Selling weight of live birds (kg.) 1.9±0.3 Av.selling price of meat/kg ( Rs.) 306.7±22.2

Jagdalpur(n=60) 13.8±4.1 26.5±2.2 37.0±1.8 7.1±0.6 1.9±0.1 313.7±22.4

Total(N=120) 13.3±4.2 27.0±2.4 36.5±1.9 7.0±0.7 1.9±0.3 310.2±22.5

cost-effective interventions, with adequate extension and support systems, contributed to the improvement of poultry and the farm management capabilities of tribal farmer in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. In this context, an attempt was made to study the role of women in backyard poultry farming system in bastar district of Chhattisgarh so that in future such programmes can be undertaken for the women empowerment.

area, the surplus live birds and eggs were marketed directly to consumers. Similar results on unorganized poultry farming in Uttar Pradesh were reported by Nandi et al (2007) and Saha (2003) on backyard poultry rearing in west Bengal. Although the productivity was very low of desi birds reared by tribal’s but selling price of eggs and live birds very high than cross bred poultry which helps in compensating livelihood security.

MATERIALS AND METHODS The Bastar district comprises of 7 blocks, out of which two blocks namely Bakawand and Jagdalpur were chosen randomly. From each block, 5 villages were selected and from each village, 12 poultry growers were selected randomly, thus making a total of 120 poultry growers for the study. The data were collected using a well-structured and pre tested interview schedule by covering all the dimensions of involvement of women in management and health care i.e. housing, feeding, breeding, health care, marketing of desi backyard poultry birds and income from poultry. Data were interpreted by using frequency and percentage analysis.

Distribution of work among family members It was noticed that most of management practices viz., housing, feeding, breeding, heath care, marketing and consumption practices were carried out by the women. Veeranna et al (1998) reported that women took active part in farm oriented activities in poultry production and Motin et al (2014) found that rural women’s role in backyard poultry production has significant importance. They are performing most of the activities in backyard poultry rearing system with utmost care and interest.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Production potential Majority of the respondents reported agriculture as primary (51.7%) and poultry as secondary occupation (35.4%) whereas 64.6 per cent respondents reported backyard poultry as a subsidiary source of income for rural woman. The data (Table 1) revealed that average flock size of desi poultry was 13.3 birds which indicates that farmers kept poultry at small scale, as a secondary source of nutritional and livelihood security. The average age of maturity was 27.0 weeks, average egg production per year was 36.5 eggs sold @ Rs 7.0/egg. Live body weight of bird (1.93 kg) was sold @ Rs 310.2/kg. It was noticed that in this 20

Income utilization from poultry As evident from data (Table 3) that majority (87.5%) of the respondents utilized their income for household, (77.5%) for poultry production, (74.2%) for recreation, (43.3%) for medicine, (29.2%) for education of children, (10.0%) for agriculture and allied purposes and only (5.8%) utilized their income for livestock purchasing according to the need of money at that time. In backyard system, the poultry growers spent their money mostly on household, poultry production and recreation which showed the active participation of women’s in income generation from the backyard poultry rearing and ultimately helped in empowering women in tribal communities of Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. Similar finding were also reported by Saha (2003) on backyard poultry rearing in West Bengal.


Empowering Tribal Women Through Backyard Poultry Table 2. Distribution of work among family members. Distribution of work 1 Housing F % Type of housing. 0 0.0 Time to release birds in morning. 0 0.0 Time to receive birds in the evening. 0 0.0 Number of birds to be kept. 11 9.2 Cleaning of poultry house. 0 0.0 Feeding Feeding of balanced ration. 53 44.2 Feeding supplementary ration. 11 9.2 Scavenging. 0 0.0 Preparation of balanced ration. 52 43.3 Quantity of feed to be fed. 0 0.0 Time of feeding. 0 0.0 Breeding Number of egg kept for natural incubation. Purchase of chicks from hatchery. Selection of cock for breeding purpose. Health Vaccination (s) to be done or not. Treatment of sick birds. Deworming. Care of chicks and birds. Marketing Whether egg/meat to be sold or not. Quantity to be sold. Purchase of housing equipments. Number and type of birds to be sold. Place of sale of birds and eggs. Place of purchase of birds. Minimum price at which birds are to be sold. Utilization of money earned from poultry. Consumption Amount of egg/meat consumed at home. Amount of egg/meat to be given as gift. Amount of egg/meat to be consumed by lactating and pregnant mother. Total

Response of family member (N=120) 2 3 4 F % F % F % 47 39.2 29 24.2 19 15.8 18 15.0 0 0.0 13 10.8 18 15.0 0 0.0 13 10.8 19 15.8 0 0.0 24 20.0 12 10.0 0 0.0 0 0.00

5 F 25 89 89 66 108

% 20.8 74.2 74.2 55.0 90.0

19 10 9 20 0 10

15.8 8.3 7.5 16.7 0.0 8.3

11 8 0 11 13 0

9.2 6.7 0.0 9.2 10.8 0.0

19 14 19 19 19 15

15.8 11.7 15.8 15.8 15.8 12.5

18 77 92 18 88 95

15.0 64.2 76.7 15.0 73.3 79.2

0 74 0

0.0 61.7 0.0

0 29 72

0.0 24.2 60.0

0 0 0

0.0 0.0 0.0

15 17 12

12.5 14.2 10.0

105 0 36

87.5 0.0 30.0

38 18 25 0

31.7 15.0 20.8 0.0

10 10 17 0

8.3 8.3 14.2 0.0

0 13 0 0

0.0 10.8 0.0 0.0

10 20 18 26

8.3 16.7 15.0 21.7

62 59 60 94

51.7 49.2 50.0 78.3

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

27 27 58 27 56 62 39 32

22.5 22.5 48.3 22.5 46.7 51.7 32.5 26.7

0 0 19 0 0 0 0 0

0.0 0.0 15.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

64 64 30 54 50 43 67 31

53.3 53.3 25.0 45.0 41.7 35.8 55.8 25.8

29 29 13 39 14 15 14 57

24.2 24.2 10.8 32.5 11.7 12.5 11.7 47.5

0 0 36

0.0 0.0 30.0

20 21 8

16.7 17.5 6.7

0 0 0

0.0 0.0 0.0

30 68 56

25.0 56.7 46.7

70 31 20

58.3 25.8 16.7

120 100.0 120

100.0 120 100.0 120 100.0

120 100.0

(1= No response, 2= Independent decision by husband only, 3= Collective decision by all family members, 4= Joint decision by husband and wife only, 5= Independent decision by wife only) CONCLUSION Rural poultry production is being recognized as important component of socio economic improvement among the weaker section of society; specially landless labourer, small and marginal farm women. Tribal backyard poultry generates self employment, provides supplementary income with protein rich food at

relatively low cost. However poor tribal farm women have maintained local desi strains with traditional management generates a fruitful income because taste of desi poultry was largely accepted which created more demand in the market. Its overall impact was observed on improving livelihood and empowering the status of women among tribal communities.


21

Chaturvedani et al Table 3. Distribution of respondents according to income utilization from poultry.

Income utilization from poultry Education For household Recreation Medicine Agriculture Poultry production Livestock purchasing Total

Total (N=120) F % 35 29.2 105 87.5 89 74.2 52 43.3 12 10.0 93 77.5 7 5.8 120 100.0

REFERENCES Ahuja V and Sen A (2007).Viability and future of small scale commercial poultry production in developing countries. Paper

22

presented at International Conference on Poultry in the 21st Century: Avian Influenza and Beyond, Bangkok, November 5-7, 2007. Motin, G A, Goswami A, Mazumder D and Pal Biswajit (2014). Backyard poultry farming system: women and its role. International Journal of Development Research 4 (5):11221124. Nandi S, Sharma K, Kumar P and Nandi D (2007). Poultry farming: A rapidly growing profitable business. Poultry Line 7 (12): 19-20. Saha D (2003). Status of rural poultry production in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. M.V.Sc. Thesis, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh. Veeranna K C, Tripathi H and Mandape M K (1998).Extension approach for mobilizing rural women in backyard poultry production. Indian Farming 48 (3):13-15.




DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00030.6

Empowerment of Self Help Group Members of Virudhunagar District Through Vocational Trainings on Mushroom Production S Muthuramu*, V K Paulpandi, S Sakthivel*, K Ramakrishnan and R Karthik KrishiVigyan Kendra Virudhunagar District, Tamilnadu – 626 107 (Tamilnadu) ABSTRACT Mushroom production can play a significant role to eradicate malnutrition, alleviate poverty and create employment opportunity for unemployed farm women in rural area. Vocational Training programme is generally conducted by the Krishi Vigyan Kendras with a goal that the trainee becomes an entrepreneur based on the acquired knowledge and skill. The vocational training programmes were conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Virudhunagar district to empower income generating ability of Self Help Groups (SHGs). Out of twelve SHGs trained, twenty five women from eight different SHGs were randomly selected for the present study. Findings of the study revealed that most of the trainees were in the age group of 21-35 yrs of age. Majority of them (36 %) were having education up to middle followed by matriculation (28 %). Four respondents (16 %) were landless, more than half (64 %) of these mushroom producers were small and marginal farm women and five (20%) were medium farm women. Total cost for mushroom production per unit was Rs. 44,823/- and gross income was Rs. 1,35,000/-. Hence each respondent may get Rs. 90,000/- as net income from their own unit every year. The mode of marketing was mainly direct sale in the unit itself, door delivery and local sale etc. Key Words: Empowerment, Mushroom production, SHG, Vocational training. INTRODUCTION Self Help Group (SHG) is a recent milestone in the upliftment of women. Since women are a vital part of the Indian economy constituting onethird of the national labour force and a major contributor to the survival of the family, they need to promote and enhance participation on an equal basis with men in social, economic and empowerment process of rural development. Rural women bring income with productive activities ranging from traditional work in fields to working in agro based industries. The efficient role of SHGs proved through various results of entrepreneurial training as better entrepreneurs and development managers in any kind of human development programmes. Most micro-finance institutions (MFIs) in India are built upon the grassroots infrastructure of SHG. Deeply embedded cultural and institutional characteristics are the primary drives of national

entrepreneurial activity. Individual’s entrepreneurial capacity can be enhanced by good education system. Krishi Vigyan Kendra at Virudhunagar district is shouldering this responsibility by training SHG members to take up income generating activities like mushroom production, preparation of value added products and composting technologies. Virudhunagar district consists of 987 women SHGs with a membership of 13248 women in association with 13 NGOs. The vocational training programmes were designed to empower income generating ability of SHGs. Hence the present study was designed to assess the socio economic profile and economics of successful members among the SHGs of the Virudhunagar district in mushroom production. MATERIALS AND METHODS The vocational trainings on mushroom production were arranged at KVK, Virudhunagar.



23

Muthuramu et al Table 1. Socio-economic profile of trainees of different SHGs.

(n=25)

Sr. No. Variable 1. Age

2.

3.

4.

5.

Frequency

Percentage

Young (21-35) Middle (36-50)

19 6

76 24

Middle Metric Higher secondary Graduation

9 7 6 3

36 28 24 12

General Backward Scheduled

2 20 3

8 80 12

Landless Marginal (2ha)

4 9 7 5

16 36 28 20

Low Medium High

7 8 10

28 32 40

Education

Category

Land holding

Extension contact

The details of training schedules were disseminated through mass media, group meetings and through village meetings of various schemes. Twelve interested SHGs were approached the KVK and got benefit out of it. Vocational training on Mushroom Production was conducted at KVK, Virudhunagar. Skill demo and video show on mushroom production were arranged to the participants and they were taken to other production units to learn firsthand information based on the principle “seeing is believing”. The trainees were given chance to visit the farmers’ day programmes at TNAU, Coimbatore, Agri Expo at Madurai and other extension activities were organized to them which encouraged the trainees to adopt mushroom production in large scale. Out of twelve SHGs trained, twenty five women from eight different SHGs were selected for the present study. An interview schedule was developed to collect the data regarding socioeconomic profile of the respondents and economics of Mushroom production. Data were collected from all the 25 successful mushroom producers using interview schedule. The data were collected by conducting personal interviews with the selected respondents. The data collected from 24

the respondents were tabulated and analyzed by using frequency and percentage. The socio economic profile of the women trainees was studied in terms of age, education, category, land holding and extension contact. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Socio-economic profile of women trainees The result exhibits that majority of the respondents were in young age group (76%) and remaining (24%) were in the middle age group (Table 1). This shows that mushroom production can be successfully promoted in rural areas for creating self- employment among rural women. These results were in line with the findings of the Rachna et al (2013). More than two third (64%) of the trainees were having education up to metric level, whereas, 24 per cent of respondents were having education up to higher secondary. Only 12 per cent of the respondents were having education up to graduation level. These results were in accordance with the study conducted by Sharma and Dhaliwal (2014). Data (Table 1) revealed that majority of the respondents (80%) were from backward category


Empowerment of Self Help Group Members Table 2. Economics of mushroom production per unit per year.

a. 1

b. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. c. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Fixed cost Mushroom shed Sprayer, irrigation pipes, straw cutting machine, ultra lamp and Auto clave Depreciation 2% and Interest at 12% for one year (Item No.1) Depreciation at 5% and interest at 12% for one year (Item No.2) Total for Item No. 1 and 2 Variable cost Spawn bottle @ of Rs. 15/bottle ( 1000 bottles /6-8 cycle / one year Straw 3200 kg for 1000 beds @ 3 kg/bed / Rs. 2 / kg Polythene cover 30 kg @ Rs. 90/kg Labour charges 120 man days (Rs. 60 / da y) Electricity charges Marketing expenses Rs. 80 / kg Total cost of production / year (33,940 + 10,872.00) Cost and returns Variable cost Rs. / year Fixed cost Rs. / year Total cost Rs. / year Yield kg / year Cost of production / kg Market price / kg Gross income Rs. / year Profit / year (Rs., 1,35,,000 – 44,812.00) Profit / kg B:C ratio

background while small proportion (8%) from general category. The number of respondents from schedule caste category was only 12 per cent. This may be due to the less participation of the general and schedule caste category trainees in the training programmes on mushroom production. This implies that while selecting the trainees for any entrepreneurship development programme, equal emphasis should be given for all categories. More than one third (36%) of respondents were marginal category women farmers having land holding less than one ha., while 28 per cent were small category women farmers. The successful mushroom producers were also from medium category (20%) and 16 per cent were landless. This indicates that the economic status of the landless, marginal and small women farmers can be improved by motivating them to adopt mushroom cultivation as main profession or as subsidiary occupation with the agriculture. This is in line with the statement of Mishra (2008). It was observed that the mushroom producers were in regular touch with the scientists of the

: : : : :

Rs Rs. Rs. Rs. Rs.

45,000/15,600/9,000/1,872/10,872/-

: : : : : : :

Rs. Rs. Rs. Rs. Rs. Rs. Rs.

15,000/6,400/2,700/7200/1200/1,440/44,812/-

: : : : : : : : :

Rs. 33,940/ Rs. 10,872/Rs. 44,812/Rs. 1,800/Rs. 27.50 Rs. 75/Rs. 1,35,000/Rs. 90,188/Rs. 47.50 2:1

KVK, Virudhunagar for gaining recent knowledge on mushroom production. About forty three per cent (40%) of the respondents were having high extension contact with KVK scientists and officials of Department of Agriculture. About one third (32%) were having medium level of extension contact while one fourth (28%) were having low extension contact with the experts. There is need to improve the contact with experts for enhancing the profitability in mushroom production. Economics of Mushroom Production Major expenditure was initial cost on the erection of mushroom shed, sprayer, irrigation pipes, straw cutting machine, ultra lamp and auto clave. While calculating cost, all fixed and variable costs were included in the study. Mushroom producers got income from sale of mushroom. The mode of marketing is mainly direct sale in the unit itself, door delivery, sales at Collectorate and other Government quarters of Virudhunagar and at Uzhavar Sandhai as 100 g and 200 g packet at a cost of Rs.10 and Rs.20 respectively. The fixed


25

Muthuramu et al

and variable costs as well as gross and net returns of different respondents were arrived based on the information collected from individual trainee. The cost and benefit per unit was calculated and tabulated in Table 2. It is inferred that total cost for mushroom production per unit was Rs. 44,823/- and gross income was Rs. 1,35,000/-. Hence each respondent might get Rs. 90,000/- as net income from their own unit in every year. The B:C ratio (2:1) shows that mushroom production will double the income. CONCLUSION The socio-economic status of the members of SHGs can be improved by different entrepreneurship development programmes like vocational trainings. The majority of women were in young age group, it is a good sign for generating self employment for rural women. The need is to select the trainees on basis of their resources and interest. Due to low expenditure requirement and high income, mushroom

26

production can be adopted by small marginal and even landless women farmers. The respondents stated that the income and expenditure of the mushroom production was shared by the members of the SHGs. The Vocational training on mushroom cultivation was empowered them economically and paved way to get regular income, job opportunity, increased farm and home income. This facilitates them to admit their children in better schools, higher studies and enabled them to provide nutritional food. The mushroom cultivation technique keeps the family members to be active and cheerful. REFERENCES Mishra S (2008). Entrepreneurship development for farm women through mushroom cultivation. Oryza 45 (1): 68- 71. Rachna, Goel R and Sodhi G P S (2013). Evaluation of Vocational Training Programmes organized on Mushroom Farming by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Patiala. J Krishi Vigyan 2(1): 26-29. Sharma K and Dhaliwal N S (2014). Socio Economic Profile of Successful Beekeepers and Profitability of Bee Keeping in Muktsar District of Punjab. J Krishi Vigyan 2(2): 69-73.



DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00031.8

Empowerment of Women Through Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) Cultivation Sharmila Bharathi C, B Mohan, S Alagudurai, R Sangeetha, G Gohila and K Paneerselvam Krishi Vigyan Kendra Veterinary College and Research Institute Campus, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Namakkal – 637 002 (Tamil Nadu) ABSTRACT Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Namakkal popularized jasmine (Jasminum sambac) cultivation. For this,7,660 three months old rooted cuttings of jasmine variety Ramanathapuram Gundu malligai was supplied to twelve farm women covering an area of 1.66 ha. as a sustainable livelihood income generating activity to mitigate poverty. Jasmine being a hardy crop withstood drought, long dry spells and survived to yield flowers throughout the year and was a perennial source of income (average profit Rs.40000/ 0.08 ha. / year) that helped sustaining interest of the farm women. The income from jasmine cultivation improved the quality of life, mainly health of the farm family and also helped them to build their asset base by repairing of home and vehicles etc. Key Words: Women empowerment, Jasmine cultivation, Income, Livelihood security. INTRODUCTION Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) is one of the leading traditional flowers of India. Jasmine is grown in various climatic regions and soils across India. Flowers are used for making garlands, adorning hairs of women in religious and ceremonial functions and for producing jasmine oil for perfume manufacture (Thakur et al, 2014). Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) popularized the jasmine (Jasminum sambac ) variety Ramanathapuram Gundu malligai, which has been recommended for cultivation under drought condition in Vadavathur and Jambumadai villages of Namakkal district. Jasmine cultivation has emerged as an alternative source of livelihood for small and marginal farm women. Income for these farm women, who were entirely dependent on agriculture, was very low because of dwindling natural resources and erratic weather condition. Jasmine cultivation was adopted because of various advantages associated with it, such as less seed capital requirement since it was a small-scale

cultivation, it generated sustainable income compared to other farming due to easy management practices . The objective of the study was to examine the impact of jasmine cultivation by farm women in mitigating poverty. The intervention consisted of five components viz., promoting jasmine cultivation through supply of rooted jasmine cuttings, foliar spray of micronutrients, proper pruning practices, drip irrigation and marketing of flowers. MATERIALS AND METHODS During the year 2011, KVK supplied 7,660 three months old rooted cuttings of jasmine variety Ramanathapuram Gundu malligai to twelve farm women covering an area of 1.66 ha. The soil type was red sandy loam with a pH of 7.6 and EC of 0.036 dSm-1 with a fertility status of low Nitrogen (251kg/ha), medium Phosphorus (12.5 kg / ha) and medium Potassium (196 kg / ha). Jasmine rooted cuttings were planted at a spacing of 5 x 5 ft in 1 cu ft pit size. Decomposed farm yard

Corresponding Author’s Email: [email protected] ; [email protected]


27

Bharathi et al Table 1. Vegetative and floral characters of one year old Jasmine plants.

Sr. No. Parameter

Observation

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

4 months after planting 27.9 - 41 cm 3- 4 8-10 27 9 160 2.8 – 3 cm 1.4 – 2 cm 1.1 – 1.3 cm April - June October - January

Number of months taken for first flowering Plant height (cm) Number of primary branches Number of secondary branches Number of flower cluster / branch Number of buds/cluster Number of flowers / 50 g Bud length including corolla (cm) Corolla length (cm) Diameter of the bud Peak season of flowering Lean period

manure @ 1 kg was applied as basal at the time of planting. Irrigation was given at the time of planting and three days after planting. Thereafter irrigation was given once in a month. Pruning was done one year after planting. The bushes were pruned to 50 cm height from the ground level during last week of November by 10 farm women. Two Farm women have done staggered pruning at monthly intervals started from October. Manuring @ 200 g of 17:17:17 complex fertilizer was done at 6 months interval. Foliar spray of ferrous sulphate @ 5 g /l and borax @ 3 g /l of water was given at monthly intervals to correct the iron deficiency in leaves (Chlorotic symptoms) and boron deficiency in bud (Pink bud). Low cost drip irrigation (without energy for discharge of water) was installed in one farm women land as a model unit with a water holding capacity of 1,000 lt. Drip irrigation was done at every eight days intervals during summer and peak flowering period. For discharge of 1,000 l of water, 15 minutes was required for irrigating 0.08 ha. area consisting of 210 plants. Totally 8,000 l of water was required per irrigation. Then need based plant protection measures were carried out uniformly against pest (Profenofos 50 EC @ 1 ml/ l of water + 0.5 ml teepol as wetting agent / l of water against bud worm ) during the period of crop growth as recommended by TNAU (Anonymous, 2013). WEATHER AND CLIMATE During the study period, 405.4 mm of rainfall was received in 31 rainy days in 2011, 469.6 mm 28

in 30 days in 2012, 639 mm in 24 days in 2013 and 689.5 mm of rainfall was received in 33 rainy days in 2014. Maximum monthly mean temperature was 38.5 o C and minimum was 21.0 o C. Maximum monthly mean relative humidity was 84.8 per cent and minimum was 47.8 per cent at 07.22 and 14.22 hr, respectively. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION In Vadavathur village, Jasmine plants started flowering at 4 months after planting (Table 1) but commercial flowering was started two years after planting. From second year onwards, beneficiaries harvested an average of 100 g of unopened flower buds / plant for a period of seven months. Each flower cluster consisted of nine buds with 2.8 – 3 cm of bud length, 1.1 – 1.3 cm of diameter and 50 g of flower contained 160 flower buds. The peak flowering season was April – June and lean period was October to January. Jasmine variety Ramanathapuram Gundu malligai withstood high temperature (30.7 – 42.40 C) as well as drought and yielded maximum (21.2 – 103. 6 kg) during the month of April – June (Fig 1) and fetched good market price. Similar result was also reported by Kailas (2012). In peak flowering period, plants received only 48 mm rainfall during 2013 and 288 mm during 2014 respectively (Fig 2). Staggered pruning induced flowering during the rainy season. Hence, the farm women got better returns throughout the year (Rs.59, 814 to 82,000 per year) with minimum area (0.08 ha.) of cultivation.


Empowerment of Women Through Jasmine

Fig.1.Yield response of Jasmine with respect to maximum temperature

Fig 2. Yield response of Jasmine with respect to high temperature and rainfall.

Table 2. Flower yield / 0.08 ha. from July 2012- November 2014 .

S.No Year

Month

1 2 3 4

July 2012 August 2012 September 2012 October 2012 Total January 2013 February 2013 March 2013 April 2013 May 2013 June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013 Total January 2014 February 2014 March 2014 April 2014 May 2014 June 2014 July 2014 August 2014 September 2014 October 2014 November 2014 Total Grand Total

2012

5 2013 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 2014 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Flower yield (kgs)

Sales amount (Rs)

1.350 7.750 8.300 6.500 23.9 3.700 6.650 21.2 59 52.3 70.6 51.3 5.75 8.500 12.500 4.550 296.05 1.900 6.650 91.25 119 103.55 33.75 30.05 8.35 12.5 6.7 6.4 420.1 710

186 1447 1325 1603 4561 1292 1734 2928 5582 5897 8452 9466 1557 2598 5016 1750 46272 1414 1738 14441 15691 12119 4848 4381 2167 2241 1392 3763 64195 115028

Debit amount Net sales (Bus fare and amount (Rs.) marketing expenses @ 10% in total sales amount (Rs.) 19 167 145 1302 132 1193 160 1443 456 4105 129 1163 173 1561 292 2636 558 5024 589 5308 845 7607 947 8519 156 1401 260 2338 664 4352 175 1575 4788 41484 141 1273 174 1564 1444 12997 1569 14122 1212 10907 485 4363 438 3943 217 1950 224 2017 139 1253 376 3387 6419 57776 11663 103365


29

Bharathi et al

Fig.3.Yield and Marketing of Jasmine flower in 20 cent area

MARKETING OF JAMINE FLOWERS The twelve farm women involved in jasmine cultivation sold the flowers at flower auction centre located in Namakkal flower market. The flower merchants maintained individual account for each farm women and wherein the quantity of flower sold, price prevailed in the market and commission towards transport and local middle man for

30

carrying flowers from bus stand to auction centre were recorded. The flower rates in the market varied daily on the basis of demand and supply (Table 3). The farm women were paid on a monthly basis after deducting the expenditure incurred on marketing. Each member spent 10 per cent of the sale price towards transport and marketing. The price of one kg flower bud of Jasminum Sambac ranged between Rs.100 – 300/ - till July. Thereafter, the price of one kg of Jasmine flower fetched around Rs.700/-. Similar higher price was also reported by Ambika (2012). It touched Rs.2000/- per kg during October end to January (Fig 3). For the past three years, the farm women have earned more than Rs.40,000/- from selling jasmine flower per year. Not only this money helped to improve the quality of life, education and health of the farm family but also helped them build their asset base by repairing of their house / vehicles (Table 3).

Jasmine in full bloom stage

Farmer Lady

Pruning in Jasmine

Newly emerged leaves at two months after pruning.


Empowerment of Women Through Jasmine Table 3 . Expenditure incurred from Jasmine cultivation of two farm women.

Sr. No. Details

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

Particulars

Area under Jasmine cultivation Total family members Average monthly income Annual income Crop cultivation Expenditure / Yr Food / Yr Dresses / Yr Education / Yr Medical expenses/ Yr Transport / Yr Savings / Yr

Mrs.R.Pappathi W/o P.Ramalingam 200 plants/ 0.08 ha 7 Rs. 5867/Rs. 59,814/Rs.15000/Rs.23000/Rs.6000/Rs.3600/Rs. 2400/Rs.3000/Rs.7000/-

CONCLUSION All the farm women practiced jasmine cultivation opined that jasmine cultivation is more profitable as flower merchants from local markets make arrangements for the daily procurement. The price fluctuation is heavy and it ranges from Rs.100/- to Rs.2000/-kg depending upon the production and market demand. This gives daily income for about nine months a year and in addition to effective utilization of time and resources. The present study revealed that the interventions made by KVK, Namakkal at Vadavathur village on jasmine cultivation have empowered women farmers of Vadavathur village, Namakkal District, through technological literacy as well as income generation.

Mrs.R.Padma w/oP.Radhakrishnan 500 plants / 0.2 ha 6 Rs. 8292/Rs. 82,000/Rs.17,500/Rs.25,200/Rs.6000/Rs.32,000/Rs. 3800/Rs.6000/Rs.10000/-

REFERENCES Anonymous ( 2013). Crop production techniques of Horticultural crops. Horticultural College and Research Institute. Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Ambika T( 2012). Jasmine: Fit for small growers. Market Survey: 19-20. Kailas Andhale( 2012). Collective marketing for better income through floriculture. Leisa India 14 (3): 15 -17. Thakur, A , Naqvi S M A, Aske D K and Sainkhediya ( 2014). Study of some ethno medicinal plants used by tribals of Alirajpur, Madhya Pradesh India. Res J Agriculture and Forestry Sci 2 (4): 9-12.



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DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00032.X

Ensuring Better Natural Resource Management Through Gender Mainstreaming Amarinder Kaur Haryana Forest Department, Panchkula 134 102 ( Haryana) ABSTRACT With a view to bring women in mainstream of life and involve them in the forest and environment conservation, Forest Department, Haryana initiated women development programme with implementation of European Union aided Haryana Community Forestry Project in the State from 1999-2008. Self Help Groups (SHGs) were constituted for women and the success achieved in this direction as a result of right approach, led to believe that the participation of women in various development activities strengthen the programme and hence the need for institutionalizing this in the regular working of forest department in the state. Accordingly, SHGs were constituted under Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) project as well. SHGs constituted by Haryana Forest Department were evaluated in seventeen districts of Haryana state of India and while carrying out the evaluation on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of United Nations were also kept in view. It was found that on all these parameters, the women in SHG villages performed better than the non-SHG villages. Key Words: Women, Forest, Environmental conservation, Self help group. INTRODUCTION Women in India roughly constitute about half of Indian population. They work from dawn to dusk but largely remained “unsung heroines” due to cultural and social reasons. Most Indian rural women are unorganized and have no common platform to voice their feelings and problems that they face in their lives. Their access to information about ongoing development schemes are marginal and hence play a peripheral role in decision making activities, which directly impinge on their requirements and aspirations. The desire for reducing their daily drudgery in collecting fuel wood, fodder, etc. through participation in managing common property resources, especially where plantations have been raised, are subdued by the male members, as the priorities of males, which generally are at variance with those of females, usually prevail in the final decision. The role of women in environment, forest and biodiversity conservation has been recognized and accordingly, Haryana Forest Department (HFD) has made efforts to ensure participation of women in all its programmes and schemes. Gender and Development (GAD) mainstreaming

is the main strategy of the government in moving forward for gender equality in the Haryana State. For this purpose, HFD has chosen the route of social and economic upliftment for their participation in forest and environment conservation. As regards the economic empowerment of women, HFD has constituted Self Help Groups (SHGs) for them. In Haryana, after certain amount of collection of money by the women, HFD provides matching financial grant. Thereafter, the SHG women assisted by the women development experts decide the income generation activities (IGAs) to be undertaken by them and accordingly, the SHG women are trained free of cost for that IGA. HFD also facilitates them in learning marketing skills for selling their products. The micro-credit given to SHG women makes them enterprising. However, it has been the experience in India that women’s groups perform better in all the important activities of SHGs (Reddy, 2008). HFD till March, 2014 has constituted 2200 SHGs in 900 villages. This work is primarily looked after by Women Empowerment Cell (WEC) of the department and as a result people are regularly getting benefitted (Anonymous, 2013).

Corresponding Author’s Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

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Kaur

In view of the increasing need to ensuring the participation of women in environment, forest and biodiversity conservation, WEC under HFD has trained and nourished SHGs to ultimately achieve the objectives of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of UN. There are eight international development goals that were officially established following the Millennium Summit of the United Nations in 2000, following the adoption of the United Nations Millennium Declaration. All 189 United Nations member states and at least 23 international organizations have agreed to achieve these goals by the year 2015 and India is part of it. Accordingly, it was decided to evaluate the performance of the SHGs constituted by HFD with the objective to eradicating extreme poverty and hunger; achieving universal primary education; promoting gender equality and empowering women; reducing child mortality rates; improving maternal health; combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases; ensuring environmental sustainability and develop a global partnership for development. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 340 women were selected from seventeen districts of Haryana state. Out of them 170 (one hundred and seventy) were selected from

the villages not engaged in SHG activities and another 170 women where the SHG have been constituted by HFD and women are actively engaged in IGA activities. Accordingly, ten women were interviewed from each district to meet the objectives of the study. A set of questions was prepared and these questions were kept common for SHG and non SHG women. The answers to these questions were recorded for each woman. The parameters for the questions include the social status of the women, their capabilities related to village development, development of leadership qualities in them, their understanding of environment conservation along with their health and general welfare status.

Fig 1.Combined mean of responses across seven parameters

Table 1. The parameter wise responses and the percentages of women of SHG and non-SHG

Parameters Social

Village development

Leadership

Environment

Health

Welfare

Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High

Self help group Count Per cent 12 7.1 83 48.8 75 44.1 93 54.7 63 37.1 14 8.2 59 34.7 48 28.2 63 37.1 54 31.8 63 37.1 53 31.2 4 2.4 34 20.0 132 77.6 82 48.2 74 43.5 14 8.2

Non-self help group Count Per cent 140 44.7 28 32.6 2 22.6 154 72.6 11 21.8 5 5.6 156 63.2 13 17.9 1 18.8 164 64.1 6 20.3 0 15.6 55 17.4 103 40.3 12 42.4 166 72.9 4 22.9 0 4.1


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Ensuring Better Natural Resource Management Table 2(a). Comparison in Social parameters between self help and non-self help groups.

Social Parameters

Level

Aware Individual

Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High

Status in family

Status in the village

Persuade others for education of children and youth Awareness regarding female foeticide

Self-Awareness and persuading other women on rights of women Motivate women towards new IGAs

Capability to attain SHG objectives/goals

Drive campaigns against social evils

Contribution for curbing crimes against women Helping in/supporting for upliftment of lower caste Supporting widows, old and handicapped and divorced women Agreement on no dowry

Awareness on legal age for marriage

34

Self help group Count Per cent 26 15.3 76 44.7 68 40.0 9 5.3 56 32.9 105 61.8 52 30.6 82 48.2 36 21.2 47 27.6 65 32.2 58 34.1 33 19.4 51 30.0 86 50.6 40 23.5 61 35.9 69 40.6 54 31.8 51 30.0 65 38.2 18 10.7 79 46.7 72 42.6 53 31.2 64 37.6 53 31.2 53 31.2 59 34.7 58 34.1 54 31.8 56 32.9 60 35.3 63 37.1 61 35.9 46 27.1 2 1.2 81 47.6 87 51.2 0 0.0 0 0.0 170 100.0


Non-self help group Count Per cent 117 68.8 46 27.1 7 4.1 78 45.9 68 40.0 24 14.1 142 83.5 23 13.5 5 2.9 145 85.3 25 14.7 0 0.0 117 68.8 49 28.8 4 2.4 142 83.5 27 15.9 1 0.6 161 94.7 7 4.1 2 1.2 154 90.6 14 8.2 2 1.2 162 95.3 6 3.5 2 1.2 147 86.5 20 11.8 3 1.8 158 92.9 10 5.9 2 1.2 160 94.1 10 5.9 0 0.0 65 38.2 87 51.2 18 10.6 11 6.5 19 11.2 140 82.4

Kaur

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The combined mean of responses across six parameters selected for evaluating the SHGs is given in Fig. 1. It can be seen that the means are higher in case of the women belonging to SHG across the state, which shows the improvement in the status and capabilities of the SHG women than the non-SHG women. SHG women are far ahead of the non-SHG women in each parameter. The responses (capabilities) were measured on a scale of 0 to 10 (0 to 3 low, 4 to 6 average and 7 to 10 high). The parameter wise responses and the percentages of women falling in each scale are given below in table 1. The women associated with a SHG have a relatively better social status as compared to non-SHG. 92.9 per cent of the women of the SHG belonged to average and high category, whereas only 17.7 per cent of the women non belonging to any SHG were in the category of average to high social status. Similarly, SHG and non-SHG women when compared on

other parameters of the study, the SHG woman had substantially higher capabilities. The capabilities of the women were compared with respect to individual variable on four important parameters i.e., social, health, education and environment. The results are presented table 2(a-d) clearly evinced that the SHG women are far ahead of the non-SHG women in all the parameters. Awareness of Health Aspects of SHG women SHG women in association with the health department, organized health camps in the villages. They also work as Asha workers in the village and help village women to avail the health facilities. SHG women drive campaigns regarding cleanliness in the village through their workings as Aanganwadi and Asha workers. The SHG women also distribute folic acid tablets and also assist in the vaccination campaigns. They also help the village women to avail the ambulance facility

Table 2 (b). Comparison in environmental parameters between self help and non-self help groups.

Environmental parameters

Level

Awareness regarding deforestation

Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High

Awareness of self and to others regarding organic fertilizer Prohibit use of plastic bags

Adopt organic farming

Energy conservation awareness

Biodiversity conservation awareness

Information on plantation on Panchayat land

Plantation on owned land

Self help group Count Per cent 20 11.8 52 30.6 98 57.6 72 42.6 45 26.6 52 30.8 44 25.9 81 47.6 45 26.5 96 57.1 39 23.2 33 19.6 45 26.5 88 51.8 37 21.8 76 44.7 75 44.1 19 11.2 45 26.5 51 30.0 74 43.5 43 25.3 52 30.6 75 44.1


Non-self help group Count Per cent 133 78.2 25 14.7 12 7.1 164 96.5 5 2.9 1 0.6 140 82.4 26 15.3 4 2.4 165 97.1 5 2.9 0 0.0 139 81.8 28 16.5 3 1.8 154 90.6 11 6.5 5 2.9 142 83.5 28 16.5 0 0.0 125 73.5 45 26.5 0 0.0 35

Ensuring Better Natural Resource Management

from the village primary health centre. SHG women with the active support of the health department also organize blood donation camps. This parameter was judged on a scale of 0 to 10 on the statements of thought process related to development of income generation activities (IGAs); independence to spend own generated income, and status of loan from money lenders The data (Table 2c) reveals that the SHG women exceed far ahead the non-SHG women on all capabilities. As regards the financial freedom, the improved economic status of SHG women gives majority of them (76.3%), the independence to spend their own income. They also have a better understanding of the IGAs and are initiators of new and innovative activities to enhance the income. Status of education of children of SHG women This parameter also gathered information on the status of education of their children. It was divided into male and girl child. The information

was presented in Table 4. Proportion of education level in the single child was appreciable but with increase number of children (male as well as female), the education status declined, however, rate of decline was more sharp in girls than in boys. Similarly, percentage of higher education was substantially very low in both the groups irrespective of number of children. Development of leadership qualities This information generated in regards to leadership qualities have been depicted in the Table 5. The data shows that there is better development of leadership qualities in SHG women than the non SHG women. Village level development The data on village development has been depicted in Fig.2. It can be observed that the village level development capability of the SHG women are relatively higher except that they need further motivation to contest in gram panchayat and block level elections to address the gender

Table 2(c). Comparison in health parameters between self help and non-self help groups.

Health Parameters Awareness regarding family planning

Awareness related to health of women

Awareness on health of pregnant women and available government facilities

Capability Self help group Count Per cent Low 2 1.2 Average 31 18.2 High 137 80.6 Low 17 10.0 Average 38 22.4 High 115 67.6 Low 17 10.0 Average 31 18.2 High 122 71.8

Non-self help group Count Per cent 60 35.3 914 53.5 19 11.2 92 54.1 63 37.1 15 8.8 64 37.6 92 54.1 14 8.2

Table 2 (d). Comparison in financial status between self help and non-self help groups.

Financial status

Level

Thought process related to development of IGAs

Low Average High Low Average High Low Average High

Independence to spend own income

Status of loan from money lenders

36

Self help group Count Per cent 43 25.3 58 34.1 69 40.6 15 8.9 25 14.8 129 76.3 138 81.2 5 2.9 27 15.9


Non-self help group Count Per cent 138 81.2 29 17.1 3 1.8 69 40.6 75 44.1 26 15.3 166 97.6 3 1.8 1 0.6

Kaur

issues, which usually remain neglected without their representation. The capabilities of Non-SHG women related to the village level development are relatively very poor. This can further be associated with their leadership qualities. SHG women are relatively better leader and prove efficient in resolving social and family issues; forming and guiding new SHGs; Guiding women towards financial independence and dealing with banks and gram associations. This also reflects their inter-personal skills as such things are managed by co-ordination, co-operation and effective communication. Parameters against literacy These parameters have been depicted in Fig.3, which indicate that the literacy parameter in SHG

Fig. 2. Village level development

villages is higher than the non-SHG villages. Even, with in self help group the literate women has more awareness for different parameters i.e. village development, leadership quality, health, welfare, etc. Comparatively non-self help group lacked behind due to their interaction with in the same group thus there seems less improvement. Very interesting information from the figure 3 emerges that the illiterate SHG has higher values than literate, whereas, the trend was reverse in NonSHG where literate has higher values than illiterate. It proves that the attitude of illiterate women can change with their involvement and awareness. Sundram (2012) also concluded that irrespective of education level, the women exposed to new environment adapt and learn more. Reducing the gender gap in access to productive assets, inputs and services in the forestry sector can help create significant development opportunities, not just for sustainable forest management but also for the overall welfare of families, communities and national economies. Studies by Agarwal (2010), Sun et al (2011) and Coleman and Mwangi (2013) suggest that if women constitute one-quarter to one-third of the membership of local forest management institutions, the dynamics change in favour of the consideration of women’s use of and access to forest resources and also towards more effective community forest management decisionmaking and management as a whole.

Table 4. Status of education of children of SHG women.

Children education

Male child Primary Secondary Graduation Post-graduation Uneducated Female child Primary Secondary Graduation Post-graduation Uneducated

Child 1 SHG Count Per cent

Non-SHG Count Per cent





93 29 28 7 13

54.7 17.1 16.5 4.1 7.6

95 29 21 3 22

55.9 17.1 12.4 1.8 12.9

19 10 0 0 141

11.2 5.9 0.0 0.0 82.9

29 7 0 3 131

17.1 4.1 0.0 1.8 77.1

6 1 0 0 163

3.5 0.6 0.0 0.0 95.9

6 1 0 0 163

3.5 0.6 0.0 0.0 95.9

73 27 26 8 36

42.9 15.9 15.3 4.7 21.2

76 26 11 1 56

44.7 15.3 6.5 0.6 32.9

8 2 2 2 156

4.7 1.2 1.2 1.2 91.8

13 2 1 2 152

7.6 1.2 0.6 1.2 89.4

2 1 1 0 166

1.2 0.6 0.6 0.0 97.6

5 0 1 1 163

2.9 0.0 0.6 0.6 95.9


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Ensuring Better Natural Resource Management Table 5. Development of leadership qualities between self help and non self help group.

Leadership quality Campaigning for improvements in school, aanganwadi and other gram associations To resolve village/gram problems / issues in coordination with Panchayat To resolve social and family related issues

To approach the concerned authority for development and cleanliness aspects To form and guide new SHGs

To guide the women towards financial independence To deal with banks, gram associations etc. through SHGs

Capability Self help group Count Per cent Low 58 34.1 Average 57 33.5 High 55 32.4 Low 64 39.4 Average 44 25.9 High 59 34.7 Low 44 25.9 Average 51 30.0 High 75 44.1 Low 76 44.7 Average 39 22.9 High 55 32.4 Low 54 31.8 Average 67 39.4 High 49 28.8 Low 59 34.7 Average 54 31.8 High 57 33.5 Low 34 20.0 Average 68 40.0 High 68 40.0

CONCLUSION In view of the limited number of jobs in govt. sector and prevailing unemployment problems in India, self help or self employment is the best approach for achieving financial freedom and uplifting the social status of women in Indian society. Concept of women participation in environment, forest and biodiversity conservation has been given practical shape through formation of SHGs in Haryana Forest Department of India. As a result of right approach, right training and constant follow up, women have become capable

Non-self help group Count Per cent 143 84.1 25 14.7 2 1.2 141 82.9 22 12.9 7 4.1 146 85.9 20 11.8 4 2.4 156 91.8 12 7.1 2 1.2 159 93.5 10 5.9 1 0.6 157 92.4 13 7.6 0 0.0 148 87.1 20 11.8 2 1.2

enough to realize their strengths, importance of their role in their families in particular and society in general. This study has revealed that constant follow up of SHGs can help achieve Million Development Goals set by the United Nations. The present study has clearly indicated the impact of change among women in SHG villages than in the non-SHG villages. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The author sincerely thanks Haryana Forest Department, Govt. of Haryana for providing human resource and material support for conducting the study. Thanks are due to entire staff of Women Empowerment Cell of Haryana Forest Department for sincerely taking up the cause of gender mainstreaming and maintaining constant dialogues with SHG women. REFERENCES Agarwal B (2010). Does women’s proportional strength affect their participation? governing local forests in South Asia. World Development 38 (1): 98-112.

Fig.3. Parameters against literacy

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Anonymous (2013). Women Empowerment Cell, Forest Department, Haryana, Van Bhawan, Sector-6, Panchkula.


Kaur Coleman E and Mwangi E (2013). Women’s participation in forest management: a cross country analysis. Global Environmental Change 23(1): 193-205. Reddy Annupalle (2008). Self-Help Groups in India - A catalyst for women economic empowerment and poverty eradication. 33 EME Conference Mondiale Du cias, tours France. 30 Juin - 4 Juillet 2008. 33rd Global Conference of ICSW, France, June 30th - July 4th 2008.

Sun Y, Mwangi E and Meinzen-Dick R (2011). Is gender an important factor influencing user group’s property rights and forestry governance? Empirical analysis from East Africa and Latin America. International Forestry Review 13(2): 205-219. Sundram A (2012). Impact of Self-help Group in Socio-economic development of India. IOSR Journal of Humanities and Social Science 5(1):20-27




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DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00033.1

Farm Women Empowerment Through Commodity Group Approach Noorjehan A K A Hanif and V Krishnamoorthi ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra Vamban colony, Pudukkottai -622 303 ( Tamil Nadu) ABSTRACT In Tamil Nadu, the Pudukkottai district is known for pulse production especially blackgram. A special Front Line Demonstration programme “Blackgram cultivation through commodity group approach” had been sanctioned to Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Pudukkottai during 2013 – 2014. With consistent efforts of KVK through focus group discussions, meetings with farmers and other stake holders, five blackgram commodity groups with 20 members per group were evolved. All the groups opened joint savings accounts in their group names in nationalized banks in Alangudi taluk of the district. Among these, four commodity groups were purely women led with farm women as members. All the farmers and farm women gained knowledge through on campus and off campus trainings both in cultivation and marketing. They were able to sell the seeds in bulk at higher rate of Rs. 55 / Kg compared to individual sale of Rs. 40/- per kg thereby an increase of 37.5 percent income raise in enhancing all the members’ living standards. The transportation cost and middlemen cost also got reduced in marketing of the produce. Key Words: Women empowerment, Commodity group, blackgram cultivation, agricultural marketing INTRODUCTION Empowerment is a multi-dimensional social process that helps people gain control over their own lives. Women empowerment generally refers to the process by which women enhances their power to take control over decisions that shape their lives, including in relation to access to resources, participation in decision making and control over distribution of benefits. Women’s empowerment has five components: women’s sense of self-worth; their right to have and to determine choices; their right to have access to opportunities and resources; their right to have the power to control their own lives, both within and outside the home; and their ability to influence the direction of social change to create a more just social and economic order, nationally and internationally (UNPOPIN, 2010). Broadly speaking, there are three types of women empowerment: • Economic empowerment: Women are economically empowered when they are

supported to engage in a productive activity that allows them some degree of autonomy. This type of empowerment is also concerned with the quality of their economic involvement, beyond their presence as poorly paid workers. •

Social empowerment: This is a process of acquiring information, knowledge and skills and supporting participation of women in social organizations without any gender discrimination in day-to-day activities. It is also concerned with inculcating a feeling of equality instead of subordination among women.

•

Political empowerment: It is concerned with enhancing the power of voice and collective action by women. Besides, it ensures equitable representation of women in decision-making structures, both formal and informal, and strengthens their voice in the formulation of policies affecting their societies. (Scrutton and Cecilia, 2007)


40


Hanif and Krishnamoorthi

Farmers Organizations (FOs) are groups of rural producers coming together based on the principle of membership to pursue specific common interests of their members and developing technical and economic activities that benefit their members and maintaining relations with partners operating in their economic and institutional environment. Farmers’ Organizations (FOs) are essential institutions for the empowerment, poverty alleviation and advancement of farmers and the rural poor (FAO, 2006). Types of Farmers Organizations (FOs) Community Based and Resource-Orientated Organization: This type could be a village level cooperative or association dealing with inputs needed by the members, the resource owners, to enhance the productivity of their businesses based on land, water, or animals. Commodity-Based, Market- orientated Farmer Organizations These organizations specialize in a single commodity and opt for value-added products, which have expanded markets. They are designated as output-dominated organizations. Not specific to any single community. The significant goal of establishing commodity groups is to create groups for each of the crops cultivated in their area and marketing the produce collectively. The basic difference between commodity groups and self – help groups (SHG) is that the SHG members contribute their share in terms of work and small savings which is rotated among the group members in need as loan and contribute in their welfare activities wherein commodity groups member (minimum 20 numbers) join the group to acquire technical knowledge on latest crop production and protection technologies and sharing among the members for their overall betterment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS Blackgram cultivation through commodity group approach was sanctioned as a special programme to Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Pudukkottai for implementation during the year 2013–2014. To create awareness on commodity groups formation and its significance, selected progressive farmers of the district were taken on exposure visit to KVK, Tiruvarur to participate in the workshop on commodity groups and experienced a significant knowledge sharing and doubts clarified. Under the special programme, off campus trainings and group meetings were conducted during June-August 2013 in the villages of Vadakadu, Kulamangalam north and Kurunthadimanai of Thiruvarankulam block of Pudukkottai district. The farmers were motivated constantly and as a result four progressive farmers (one male and three female) came forward to form blackgram commodity groups. With consistent efforts through activities of KVK, following five blackgram commodity groups were evolved (Table 1) who started joint savings accounts in banks (in their group names) in the Alangudi taluk of the district. All the members of the five groups (100 members @ 20 members / group) were provided with inputs like Blackgram seed of variety VBN 6 @ 4kg / member and 200g Rhizobium packets for seed treatment. The crop was sown by all the members during October - November 2013. For the benefit of farmers, seed treatment and tractor - drawn seed drill sowing were demonstrated to them in their villages. Knowledge on various technologies in Blackgram cultivation was imparted to the group members through oncampus and off-campus trainings and demonstrations. A questionnaire was developed to know the effect of this commodity group approach followed by the KVK in order to empower the women farmers in the district.

Table 1. List of Blackgram commodity groups established.

Sr. No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Name of the Blackgram Commodity group Vizhuthugal Blackgram commodity group Blackgram commodity group Magarantham blackgram commodity marketing group Malarum pookkal blackgram Commodity marketing group Ulundu Commodity marketing group

Village Koottampunjai Kulamangalam north Pallathuviduthi Santhanpatti Kurunthadimanai


Group leader Woman Man Woman Woman Woman

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Farm Women Empowerment Table 2. Knowledge gain and adoption level of commodity group members on Blackgram cultivation technologies.

Sr. No 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Technology New Variety selection Seed treatment with bio fertilizers and pesticides Weed management techniques Seed drill sowing Fertilizer application Post harvest technologies Value addition Seed production techniques

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Gain in knowledge and adoption level The knowledge gained and adoption percentage as observed among the Blackgram commodity group members were given in table 2. In the study area, the farmers were using old varieties of Blackgram namely VBN 3 and VBN 5 which were susceptible to yellow mosaic virus (YMV). Introduction of YMV resistant variety i.e., VBN 6 and its cultivation highly satisfied the group members. It was noted that more than three-fourth of the commodity group members adopted only hand sowing of blackgram and only 10 members adopted seed drill sowing due to the reason, fear of failure of crop and low risk bearing capacity of the group members. The group members had good knowledge gain in other cultivation aspects of blackgram viz., seed treatment with bio fertilizers and pesticides, weed management techniques, fertilizer application, post harvest technologies, value addition and seed production techniques but the percentage of adoption varied. The reason might be that this is a short duration crop and farmers expect reasonable income from lesser management and investment. It was important to note that four women members turned into seed producers and supplying the VBN 6 blackgram seeds to other farmers of their own district and nearby districts of Thanjavur and Trichy. Farmers experienced that the variety VBN 6 blackgram was resistant to YMV, good growth, more number of pods and bold seeded. Marketing linkage was created between the blackgram commodity groups and Department of Agricultural Marketing and Agribusiness, 42

Gain in knowledge (%) 100 86 67 80 95 58 49 89

Adoption level ( %) 100 36 92 10 87 49 11 04

Pudukkottai. For immediate procurement and payment, linkage with Agricultural cooperative Marketing society, Thirumayam has been facilitated for the group members. All the farmers in their respective groups sold the seeds in bulk at higher rate of Rs. 55 / kg compared to individual sale of Rs. 40/- per kg. This approach resulted in an increase of 37.5 per cent in the total income. In addition, KVK facilitated interested members of the commodity group to participate in the exposure visit to Regulated Markets, Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu and AMIABC in Tiruchirapalli district of Tamil Nadu and farm women felt satisfied in gaining knowledge, on agricultural produce marketing through various ways and means and storage structure facilities provided by the state Government. The indirect impact of this extension approach led to increase in area of cultivation of black gram in Pudukkottai district from 4,537 ha in 2012-2013 to 6,752 ha in 2013-2014. The impact of popularization of this VBN 6 blackgram variety led to 50 per cent increase in production and productivity of blackgram cultivation in the district. There is a constant demand for this variety from farmers side both within and from nearby districts. Farmers from other blocks were interested to come forward to form such commodity groups and organize themselves as farmers’ producer organization. CONCLUSION The present study showed that all the farm women (87) and farm men (13) members gained knowledge on YMV resistant variety VBN 6, mechanization in blcakgram and seed production techniques. Adoption of YMV resistant variety VBN 6 blackgram among all the members led to


Hanif and Krishnamoorthi

the popularization of the variety. The commodity group members sold their seeds in bulk at higher rate of Rs. 55 / Kg compared to individual sale of Rs. 40/- per kg. The public and private sectors should indentify the existing farmers associations and support them to develop their organization. Government extension services and NGO staff need to receive suitable training to act as group facilitators. REFERENCES

paper, Empowerment Note 2, Inter co-operation, Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation. United Nations Population Information Network (UNPOPIN) (2010), “Guidelines on Women’s Empowerment”, http:// www.un.org/popin/unfpa/taskforce/guide/iatfwemp.gdl.html, Accessed January 2015 Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) (2006). Farmers organizations / farmers associations in India, Education, Jan 10, 2013. http://www.slideshare.net/facegopi/farmersorganizationsfarmers-associations-in-india, Accessed January 2015



Scrutton and Cecilia (2007), “The Definition and operationalisation of empowerment in different development agencies”, ODI


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DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00034.3

Farmers Driven Value Chain of Kadali Banana: A Gadget For Women Empowerment R Sendilkumar College of Cooperation Banking and Management Kerala Agricultural University,Thrissur 680 656 (Kerala) ABSTRACT Empowerment is defined as a collective undertaking, involving both individual and collective action. Hence, an attempt was made to study the empowerment dynamics of women farmers in the value chain of kadali banana cultivation. Sixty women farmers who cultivated kadali banana selected from Mattathur Panchayath of Thrissur district by applying simple random sampling. The dynamics of empowerment dimension was studied with the inclusion of knowledge, psychological, economical, social and political sub components and collected through well structured interview schedule and focus group discussion. Empowerment Dynamics Index (EDI) computed showed that 18 per cent increase in the overall empowerment dimension of women gender. Key Words:

Empowerment dynamics, Value chain, Kadali banana.

INTRODUCTION It has been emphasized on strengthening and motivating the farmers of the grass root level by inspiring them to think critically and take group decision and equal participation. Few institutional interventions in cultivation of agricultural crops and marketing are recently attempted in Kerala with successful model. One such noted initiative reported was that intervention of the Labour Cooperative Society for Local Development and Social Welfare Ltd. (LCS) in the Kadali banana cultivation and marketing to the largest consumer. This society directly collects the products from the farmers and supply to M/s Guruvayur Devaswom which requires 12,000 fruits/d. M/s Mattathur Labour Co-operative Society has been hired as an intermediary agency for procurement and transport of Kadali banana. Presently, However, the Labour Co-operative Society is presently providing only 4,000 fruits per single transaction at a fixed rate of Rs.3/fruit (approx. weighing 40g), which are procured from 120 farmers inclusive women farmers of Mattathur Panchayat. The farm women segment belongs to Join liability group (JLG) recently inducted for Kadali banana cultivation. They have encouraged for taking agricultural loan from the LCS and

nearby cooperative bank for cultivating Kadali banana even in the leased land in group farming mode. It is conceived as challenge for the farmers and the LCS to meet the complete requirement of the demand with assured quantity and quality prescribed. This raises serious research questions that how far the farmers empowered to take the task of challenge, what dimension of empowerment do they have and not? Hence, an attempt was made to study the empowerment dynamics of women farmers before and after joining as members in the farmer driven value chain. A flow chart depicting the value chain of Kadali banana is given in fig.1 MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was carried out with sixty women farmers who cultivated Kadali banana selected from Mattathur Panchayath of Thrissur district by applying simple random sampling. Ex-post research design was followed to study the empowerment dimension, where as descriptive research design used to analyze the value chain of Kadali banana as prescribed by IFAD M4 P (2008). The empowerment dynamics was studied by considering the major components (knowledge, psychological, social, economic and


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Sendilkumar

political empowerment) selected from the jury opinion. All the major components were measured with the help of identified subcomponents. Each subcomponent listed was measured against the identified items, collected through the process of review of relevant literature, focused discussion with the officials, experts experienced farmers and peer groups. One score was given against each item and thus maximum and minimum score were 5 and 1, respectively. The obtained score was then categorized as highly empowered (4-5), empowered (3-4), moderately empowered (2-3), little empowered (1-2) and very little empowered (0-1). Likewise, responses were collected from the respondents for the two occasions such as before and after joining of membership to the Kadali cultivation with institutional intervention of the LCS by using structured interview schedule and focus group discussion. The data were analyzed using simple percentage, mean, t test and index for meaningful interpretation. The Empowerment dynamics index (EDI )was calculated by using the following formula. EDI= KEI+PsyEI+SEI+EEI+PEI / 5 Where EDI = Empowerment Dynamic Index, KEI = Knowledge empowerment index, PsyEI = Psychological empowerment index, SEI= Sociological empowerment index EEI= Economic empowerment index, PEI= Political empowerment index RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Knowledge empowerment The knowledge empowerment was analyzed in terms of awareness of information, knowledge

and skills possessed by the respondents before and after joining in Kadali cultivation and marketing programme facilated by the LCS is presented in table1. It was noticed that knowledge on the application of organic practices(K1), organic inputs(K2) and banana sucker selection (K3) by the respondents have been increased from 1.8, 1.9, and 2.2 to 3.2, 3.4, and 3.0, respectively after joining in the value chain. Knowledge on the support services given by the LCS (K6) has been drastically increased from 2.1 to 3.6. All the respondents (100%) have responded positively when asked questions regarding group farming after joining in joint liability group (K4). Among the subcomponents studied, support services given by LCS (K6), application of organic manures (K2) and organic practices in Kadali banana cultivation (K1) have been contributed heavily on the dimension of knowledge empowerment. It was evident that mean scores of all the dimensions of knowledge empowerment were increased substantially. The major reason for knowledge empowerment was mainly due to their participation members in the LCS lead flagship programme with involvement of various development agencies in the study area. Similar type of results were reported by Ashokhan (2006). T-test showed a significant difference in the mean scores of subcomponents viz., K3, K6 and K5. Hence it may concluded that LCS played a significant facilitative role in the knowledge empowerment of women farmers.

Table 1. Knowledge empowerment of women farmers .

Sr. No. Knowledge empowerment components

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6

Adoption of organic practices in Kadali banana cultivation Application of organic manures Knowledge in screening and selection of disease free suckers Knowledge on group farming and its benefits Knowledge on value addition of kadali banana Knowledge on support services given by LCS Total mean score Overall mean Score Source: Primary Data t value (1% significance) = 2.6617

(n=60)

Mean Score Before After Joining Joining 1.8 1.9 2.2 1.3 2.0 2.1 11.3 1.88


3.2 3.4 3.0 3.8 3.0 3.6 20 3.34

t- test value

5.2063** 1.0131 8.3649** 3.0612** 8.1276** 8.1312**

45

A Gadget For Women Empowerment

Psychological empowerment The psychological empowerment dimension of the women farmers was assessed in terms of change in courage, decision making quality, risk taking ability etc. (Table 2) Table2 reveals that there has been considerable improvement in the psychological attributes studied. The confidence level of the women farmers in Kadali cultivation has been increased considerably which is evident from the obtained mean scores (1.8 to 3.6). Remarkable improvement in motivation towards Kadali cultivation was noticed (mean score from 1.8 to 4.0). This was mainly due to various farmers’ friendly initiatives taken by the LCS and VFPCK with technological support from Kerala Agricultural University bounded institution in the study area. The risk taking ability of the member farmers were also found to be increased. Regarding feeling of self-esteem and decision making ability, there has been an outstanding improvement, were noticed. The feeling of selfesteem has been increased from the mean score

of 2.3 to 3.0, because of the pride that Kadali fruits being complimented with spiritual value and supplied to Guruvayur Devosm for the devotional purpose. The t-test showed a significant difference in the mean scores on confidence, risk taking ability, motivation and self esteem. This significance change might be due to the positive impact of group farming through mobilizing the joint liability group (JLG) towards Kadali cultivation in the study area. 3. Social empowerment The social empowerment was studied in terms of freeness to work with group members, participation in group activities, involvement in the decision making process, participation in LCS and gramsabha meetings, interaction with inter and intra group members, team spirit and leadership quality. The results are depicted in the Table 3. From the Table.3 it was evident that the women farmers have established good contact with

Table 2. Psychological empowerment of women farmers.

Sr. No Psychological empowerment components P1 P2 P3 P4 P5

Confidence Decision making quality Risk taking ability Motivation in Kadali farming Self esteem Total mean score Overall mean score Source: Primary Data t value (1% significance) = 2.6617

(n=60)

Mean score Before joining After joining 1.8 3.6 2.1 3.5 2.2 3.5 1.8 4.0 2.3 3.2 10.2 13.8 2.04 2.76

Table 3. Social empowerment of women farmers.

Sr.No. Sociological empowerment components S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8

Free interaction with inter and intra group members Participation in group activities Participation in decision making Participation in LCS and grama sabha meeting Leadership quality Group responsibility consensus to solve problem Developing institutional contact Group marketing skill Total mean score Overall mean score Source: Primary Data t value (1% significance) = 2.6617 46

t- test value 4.3567** 2.2185* 3.3242** 9.2541** 2.5740**

(n=60)

Mean Score Before Joining 2.3 2.6 2.7 2.7 2.6 2.4 2.1 1.8 19.20 2.40

t- test value After Joining 3.4 3.0 3.4 2.8 3.1 3.2 4.0 3.1 26.0 3.25


6.4136** 2.4269** 7.5136** 0.1094 3.9637** 8.2600** 9.2419** 3.9292**

Sendilkumar

supporting institutions. After associating with the Kadali banana cultivation under JLG mode with LCS intervention, the mean scores for the above said subcomponents were increased from 2.1 to 4 and 3.9 respectively. Karpagam (2009) reported that social dynamics was greatly developed after becoming the members of irrigation association. Similar social dynamics were also observed among the members of JLG, which was evident from the increased mean score (S1: 2.3 to 3.4). In the case of participation of JLG members in the group activities and involvement in decision making process, considerable improvement noticed in the mean scores (S2, S3). The working nature of the JLG programme and their association with the development department might be the reason for enhancement in the social empowerment. The t-test values showed significant difference in the mean scores on the components like free interaction with inter and intra group members of JLG (S1), participation in group activities(S2), involvement in decision making(S3), leadership quality (S5) group responsibility and consensus to solve problem(S6), developing institutional contact and linkage with developing departments(S7), group marketing skill(S8). It can be seen that leadership quality of the respondents were improved and the other components such as participation in LCS and Gramasabha meetings were remains more or less same even after joining in the venture.

4. Economic empowerment The economic empowerment dimension was studied with inclusive of parameters like income, savings habit, investments, financial management skill, purchasing of input of farming etc. were given in Table 4. It was evident that income of the women farmers had reasonably increased, might due to the remunerative price (@ Rs. 3/- fruit) obtained for the Kadali banana by virtue of the LCS contract with Guruvayur Devosom. Regarding the purchase of agri-inputs (E8), respondents have gained increased mean score (3.5), due to the fact that monitoring role of LCS in controlled supply of quality and disease, pest free suckers. In the case of availing of agricultural loans (E4), farmers have been empowered adequately (mean score 1.2 to 2.3), because of the good service rendered by Vallikulangara Service Cooperative Bank to its members. The savings of the members have slightly increased (2.4) due to assured return from farming. In the case of subcomponent on economic empowerment: “banana crop insurance” (E7) no change in the mean score was noticed due to lack awareness of the scheme and the poor out reach. t-test values computed also support the mean score obtained and shown significant difference in saving of money (E2), investments in assets creation (E3) and purchasing inputs (E8).

Table 4. Economic empowerment of women farmers.

Sr.No E1 E2 E3 E4 E5 E6 E7 E8

Economic empowerment components

Increased income due to yield obtaining Saving habits Investments in assets Availing agriculture loans from credit institution Financial management skill Availing the facilities of LCS Availing banana crop insurance Purchase of inputs of farming Total Mean Score Overall mean score Source: Primary Data t value (1% significance) = 2.661

(n=60)

Mean Score Before joining 2.3 1.5 1.2 1.2 2.4 1.4 1.0 1.7 12.70 1.58


t-test value After joining 3.3 2.4 1.7 2.3 3.0 1.8 1.0 3.5 19.0 2.37

1.8342 4.3848** 6.5988** 2.0157* 1.1696 0.0030 NA 2.7519**

47

A Gadget For Women Empowerment

5. Political Empowerment The political empowerment studied with variables like membership in social organization, position assumed in the society and political party, freedom of expressing ideas in politics and conflict management were shown in Table 5. Data (Table 5) revealed that the mean score differences obtained by the respondents in political empowerment components, were seems to more or less same. A few respondents were held membership in political parties at the micro-level. With respect to conflict management, the average score obtained by the respondents was increased by 0.4. Slight improvement in the mean score was noticed in the case of variables, such as membership in social organization, position in the political parties and freedom of expressing ideas in politics. The t-test showed a significant difference in the mean score obtained for conflict management (P4) because the conflict management is very much needed for the joint liability group to settle down various issues arises out conflict from time to time. 7. Empowerment Dynamics Index (EDI) Empowerment dynamics index were computed by inclusive of major components such as knowledge empowerment, psychological

empowerment, social empowerment, economic empowerment and political empowerment (Table 6). It was computed that 37.8 per cent increase in the empowerment dynamics index (Table 6). This might be due to cumulative effect of empowerment in all components of empowerment. The increase in EDI was reported for the knowledge empowerment component (77%), economic empowerment component (49.84%), social empowerment component (35.41%), psychological empowerment component (35%) and political empowerment component (13.11%) in order. Hence it was concluded that relatively considerable enhancement has noticed in all the dimensions of women empowerment studied. CONCLUSION The farmers driven value chain for Kadali banana with LCS intervention in cultivation and marketing has become an instrumental for brought about adequate women empowerment. On the basis of the study conducted, it can be said that appropriate team building and leadership management programmes could be designed to suit for gender specific JLG to nurture the empowerment dimension. Similarly,exclusive gender specific training module incorporating soft

Table 5. Political empowerment of women farmers.

Sr. No. Political empowerment components P1 P2 P3 P4

Membership status in the social organizations Position in the political parties Freedom of expression of ideas in politics Conflict management in settling issues Total mean score Overall mean score Source: Primary Data t value (1% significance) = 2.6617

(n=60)

Mean Score Before joining After joining 1.7 1.3 1.4 1.7 6.1 1.52

1.8 1.4 1.5 2.1 6.9 1.72

t- test value 0.0896 1.0000 0.0327 9.3474**

Table 6. Empowerment Dynamics Index (EDI) of women farmers.

n=60

Componen Dimensions of Empowerment Knowledge empowerment index(KEI) Psychological empowerment index(PsyEI) Social empowerment index (SEI) Economic empowerment index(EEI) Political empowerment index(PEI) Empowerment dynamics index(EDI) 48

Index Before joining 0.452 0.408 0.480 0.317 0.305 0.392


After joining 0.800 0.552 0.650 0.475 0.345 0.564

Sendilkumar

Fig.1 Flows of product, information and knowledge in the value chain of kadali banana.

skills on the light of empowerment dimensions of women farmers could be developed to meet the challenges of group farming and value addition aspect of Kadali banana has to be scaled up after analyzing the business potential and adequately empowered through incubation process. REFERENCES Ashokhan M (2006). A study on empowerment of SHG operated in selected district of TamilNadu –An empirical study, Ph.D thesis (Unpublished), Dept of AE&RS, TNAU, Coimbatore.

Kirkman B L, Lowe K B and Young D P ( 1999) . Highperformance work organizations, Definition, Practices and an annotated bibiliography. Centre for creative Leadership, North Carolina. IFAD M4 P. 2008. Making Value Chains Work Better for the Poor: A toolbook for practitioners of Value Chain Analysis, December 2008. Available: www.valuechains4poor.org Karpagam C (2009) . Social dynamics of farmers in drip irrigation system of selected crops-An empirical study. Ph.D thesis (Unpublished), Dept of AE&RS, TNAU, Coimbatore.



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DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00035.5

Feminization of Agriculture: Reflections from the Female Participation in Training Programmes on Agriculture and Allied Activities Manisha Bhatia* and Jugraj Singh Marok, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Langroya, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshahr)-144516 (Punjab) ABSTRACT Women are actively involved in agriculture and contribute significantly in agriculture and allied activities. Despite their active involvement in all aspects of agriculture like crop selection, land preparation, seed selection, cold storage handling, marketing and processing, their work is unorganized, unvalued and unrewarded. Active involvement of women in agriculture clearly indicates the feminization of agriculture referring to increasing presence or visibility in agriculture labour force, whether as agricultural worker, independent producers or unremunerated family workers. Is this trend of visibility of women in agriculture equally visible when it comes to capacity building of farmers? Is women participation in training programmes proportionate to their participation in agriculture and allied activities? The present paper was an attempt to find an answer to this by looking at the various vocational trainings conducted in the field of agriculture and allied activities from gender lens. The trainings conducted in the field of poultry, dairy, bee-keeping, mushroom cultivation and agricultural engineering during the last five years (2010-2014) in Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar were analyzed. The study indicated that although the participation of females in training programmes related to agriculture and allied activities has increased especially in dairy and mushroom cultivation but it was not in proportion and according to the rate of participation of females in agriculture or their representation in the population. Key Words: Feminization, Capacity building, Women participation, Training programmes. INTRODUCTION Women form an integral part of the society. Human Development Index report states that women is half of the world’s population, yet they do 2/3rd of the total work, earn 1/10th of the total income and own less that 1/100 th of the total property of the world. This indicates that despite their sizable population and proportionate contribution to the work, women have a little access to the resources and little say in the decision making. Women are perceived as second sex dependent on men and irony is that not only men but also most women hold the same view about themselves because of the traditional orientation. The reason for such a view is also due to the perceived roles, constraints and needs of men and women in our society.

Gender role differs from biological role of men and women, although they may overlap. Aside from raising children, women are expected to prepare all meals, maintain the homestead and in rural areas they assist in crop and animal production. Women work as agricultural labour, unpaid worker in the family farm enterprise but despite the involvement of women in agriculture men are generally labeled as ‘farmers’ and women as ‘child raisers and cooks’. Contribution of women in agriculture and allied activities is indicative from the fact that 48 per cent of the India’s self employed farmers are women and there are 75 m. women engaged in dairy as against 15 m. men and 20 million in animal husbandry as compared to 15 m. men. These impressive figures are indicative of active


50


Bhatia and Marok

involvement of women in agriculture and allied activities thus resulting in feminization of agriculture –a term which broadly refers to the increasing presence or visibility in agriculture labour force, whether as agricultural worker, independent producers or unremunerated family workers. If this is true the same trend of women participation should also be represented in various training programmes conducted for the capacity building of farmers in the field of agriculture and allied activities. In view of the critical role of women in the agriculture as producers, Sidhu (2011) suggested that benefits of training should reach women in proportion to their participation pattern. Participation of women in training programmes will enhance their skills and strengthens faith in them for effective and independent performance of farm operations and help them to make a shift from physically enduring operations to specialized tasks. There is need to focus on gender related data in agriculture and related sectors to build a better understanding and proper balancing of resources. This might be a step towards gender sensitization and thereby creating a more favourable gender relations and work environment. As per Census 2011 of the total cultivators 9.37 per cent are females in Punjab while female agricultural laboureres form 21.97 per cent of the total agricultural laboureres. The corresponding figures for Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar were 8.01 per cent female cultivators and 38.35 per cent of the female agricultural labourer. Females in the district participate in harvesting and weeding as indicated in the study conducted by Sidhu (2011). Similarly Goyal et al (2003) conducted a study in Balachaur and Saroya blocks of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district found that farm women were participating in weeding, harvesting and least participation in plant protection measures, raising nursery, for seedling and ploughing. With very small landholdings in this area, the major activities of farming which were mostly drudgery laden were performed by women. Seed treatment and fertilizer application were male centered operations. The high level of women participation in farm operations is attributed to very small landholding in the foothills which lead to menfolk

seeking another employment opportunities outside the village leaving women to perform most of the task at the farm land. KVKs are one of the agencies which are actively involved in training the farmers and farm women in agriculture and allied areas thus encouraging and developing skills for selfsufficiency and indirectly contributing to women empowerment. The study was undertaken with the objective to ascertain the proportionate number of women enrolled for training conducted at KVK, Langroya Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar in the field of dairy, poultry, bee-keeping, mushroom cultivation and agricultural engineering. Further, is the number of female trainees equal to the number of male trainees? MATERIALS AND METHODS In order to analyze the visibility of women in capacity building trainings conducted by the KVK, gender wise data of the participants in the vocational trainings conducted in the field of poultry, dairy, bee-keeping, mushroom cultivation and agricultural engineering during the last five years (2010-2014) were collected. The vocational trainings conducted in the field of home science were excluded purposively as the aim was to know the participation of rural women and their capacity building in the field of agriculture and allied activities only. In order to focus on the trends of female participants in these training programmes the data were analyzed in the form of percentage and percentage point change both annually for the years under study and also overall percentage point changes during the last five years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The data (Table 1) revealed that during the year 2010, the number of female participants was not more than 3 in any of the training programme which indicates that their participation was negligible. There was no female participant in trainings on poultry. No training was conducted in the field of agriculture engineering during this year. Similarly in the year 2011, the number of female participants was only 9 in mushroom cultivation with no female participants in beekeeping.


51

Feminization of Agriculture Table 1. Gender wise distribution of participants in vocational trainings in agriculture and allied activities (2010-2014)

Year

Dairy

Poultry

Bee keeping

Mushroom cultivation

Agricultural Engineering

Male Female Total

48 1 49

25 0 25

33 3 36

21 2 23

-

Male Female Total

49 4 53

20 1 21

12 0 12

35 9 44

-

Male Female Total

44 6 50

15 0 15

28 1 29

22 7 30

-

Male Female Total

6 2 18

12 1 13

75 6 81

29 13 42

10 2 12

Male Female Total

37 10 47

5 6 11

42 16 58

34 20 54

10 0 10

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

The trend remained same in the year 2012. The number of female participants increased in next year with their number rising to 13 in trainings on mushroom cultivation. The participation of females was quiet visible in all the trainings programmes. During 2014, an upward trend in the participation of females in various training programmes was observed, the number being highest again in trainings on mushroom cultivation followed by trainings on bee-keeping. Participation of females in various training programmes needs to be looked in terms of their proportionate participation with respect to males. Animal husbandry is predominantly a female affair in case of farmers of medium and low socioeconomic status. On an average a women devotes 3.5 hr/d for animal husbandry activities against only 1.6 hr/d devoted by men in this category. Women accounted for 93 per cent of total employment in dairy production. Depending upon the economic status, women perform the tasks of collecting fodder, collecting processing dung. Women undertake dung composting and carrying to the fields. Thus, most of the activities related to dairy are being performed by females only with 52

very little male involvement but when it comes to capacity building and training the participation of females was only 12 per cent in the year 2012 and 11 per cent in 2013. Trainings on dairy seem to have a steady increase in the female participation over the years in reference. The representation of females in the trainings on dairy was only 2 per cent in 2010 which increased to 21 per cent in 2014. Thus one-fifth of the total participants of dairy training during the year were females. There was no representation of females in training programmes related to poultry in 2010 while year 2014 witnessed an increase of about 27 per cent. Of the participants who took training on bee keeping 8 per cent were females in 2010 while in 2014 their representation was 27 per cent (Table 2). Mushroom cultivation seems to be gaining popularity among the females as only 9 per cent females got trained in this field in 2010 but their proportion increased to 37 percent in 2014. Agricultural engineering trainings were not very popular among the female as indicative from 16 per cent female participation in these training programmes in 2013 while none of them participated in 2014.


Bhatia and Marok Table 2. Percentage of female participants in vocational trainings in agriculture and allied activities (2010-2014).

Training Course Dairy Poultry Bee keeping Mushroom cultivation Agricultural Engineering

2010 2 0 8 9 -

2011 7 5 0 20 -

The participation of females in the training programmes reflect that although the trend of female participate in agriculture and related activities has increased over time but still it was not proportionate to their active involvement in agriculture and allied activities. This may be due to the fact that they were not interested or not allowed to take trainings to upgrade their skill and technical know-how. This reflects the patriarchal mindset which results in involving women in all labour intensive activities but when it comes to capacity building they are kept at backstage. Despite their significant contribution in agriculture women are excluded from community meetings they have no access to education and training which limit their capacity for proactive involvement. This results in women having a little access to the resources and little say in the decision making. The data revealed that mushroom cultivation which is less labour intensive and relatively easy was most popular among the females while agricultural engineering training programmes which involves relatively more technical knowledge and machinery was least popular. But is the trend of female participation same throughout the reference period under study? Data on annual percentage points change indicated that female participation increased by 5 percentage points during 2011 and 2012 respectively in poultry. The change in these

2012 12 0 3 23 -

2013 11 8 7 30 16

2014 21 27 27 37 0

trainings was 10 percent points during 2014. In case of trainings in poultry a change of 5 percent points was recorded in 2011 while the change in female participation in training programmes was high as indicated in 19 percent points change in 2013. In case of trainings on bee-keeping the changes are quiet substantial. From a percent points change of -8 in 2011 the change is quiet impressive, it changed by 20 percent points in 2014. Female participation in trainings on mushroom cultivation had seen a downward trend as indicated by annual percent points change. This may be due to the fact that the participation of females in these trainings was already higher in 2011. A steep hike is seen in the participation of females in the training programmes in year 2014 as indicated by the maximum annual percent points change during this year. This may be attributed to the efforts to rope in and involve various self-help groups existing in the district in various training programmes of KVK. Percent point change during the five years is maximum in case of trainings on mushroom cultivation followed by poultry, dairy and bee keeping. This further substantiated the fact that there has been a steady increase in the participation of females in the training programmes related to agriculture and allied activities during the period of five years especially in case of dairy and mushroom cultivation. This indicates a step towards capacity building of rural women and in

Table 3. Percent points change in female participation in trainings in agriculture and allied activities.

Training Course

Dairy Poultry Bee keeping Mushroom cultivation Agricultural engineering

Annual Percent Points Change 2014 10 19 20 7 -16

Percentage point change during five years (2014-2010) 19 27 19 28 0


53

2011 5 5 -8 11 0

2012 5 -5 3 3 0

2013 -1 8 4 7 16

Feminization of Agriculture

turn empowerment of women but still it was not proportionate to the rate of participation of females in agriculture. The representation of females in these training programmes was not even in accordance of their representation in the population. Thus further efforts are needed to encourage women participation in such capacity building programmes. Also an in depth follow up study is needed to ascertain the capacity building and role of females who had undergone such training programmes in the decision-making process. CONCLUSION The present study conducted to explore the participation of females in various vocational trainings conducted at KVK SBS Nagar from last 5 years. The study pointed out the fact that the participation of females in these training programmes related to agriculture and allied activities has increased over a period of time. There was an increase in the percent points change in the females participating in these vocational

54

training programmes during the period in reference but was not in proportion and accordance to the rate of participation of females in agriculture or their representation in the population. Hence, efforts are needed to rope in more females in various capacity building programmes of KVK with a missionary zeal. REFRENCES Sidhu K (2011). Agro Climatic Zone vise Analysis of Women in Farming in Punjab. Journal of Home Economics 33(1) 4752. Goyal G, Randhawa V, Kaur R, Kaur V and Pannu K (2003). Women Participation in Agri-Operations. Journal of Family Ecology 5:167-171. Stuadt K A (1973). Women Farmers and Inequalities in Agri services. Rural Africana 29 :81-93. Census (2011). Office of Registrar General and Census Operations. Government of India. Kumar A, Tanuja S and Chahal V P (2012). Role of Women in Livestock Husbandry, Fisheries and Aquaculture for their Empowerment. Indian Farming-Special Issue on Women in Agriculture: Opportunities for Incusive Growth 61 (12):2124.



DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00036.7

Impact Assessment of Skill Development Programme For Rural Women in District Ludhiana Prerna Kapila Department of Apparel and Textile Science, College of Home Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004 ( Punjab) ABSTRACT The present study was designed to assess the impact of skill development trainings rendered with the help of local knitwear industry with a twin objective of solving the skilled labour deficit by providing training to local labour pool and for empowering rural women. The respondents for the study were selected by purposive sampling technique and consisted of rural women who showed interest in taking such training at the time of baseline survey. A total sample size of 90 respondents was selected through a purposive sampling technique at three locations. The training was provided through a modular training program on industrial machines as per the requirement of the industry. The data for benefits received by the rural women and the impact assessment was gathered through an interview schedule method and analyzed thoroughly. The study revealed that the trainings provided by industry were considered useful by 76 per cent of rural women and it empowered them in certain areas as decision making, selfreliance and confidence building. Though the training contributed a lot in empowering women still the impact on income generation was at satisfactory level. Opportunity of employment and need based training was a major factor behind the success of skill development initiative. Key Words: Assessment, Skill development, Programme, Rural women. INTRODUCTION Skill development is an area which has hogged the limelight in the recent years due to the unprecedented shortage of skilled manpower across the clusters and the knitwear cluster of Ludhiana is no exception. This industry has the potential to provide employment to approximately 4 lac workers as skilled as well as unskilled workforce. Majority of the presently employed workers are migrants from the neighboring states and engage in cyclic employment. The industry is facing a deficit of almost 1.5 – 2.0 lac workers in skilled worker category. This deficit is resulting in reduced capacity utilization of the industrial units and the productivity, quality and cost competitiveness of the cluster is adversely affected. This has forced the industries to look at alternate sources of labor, and the attention is drawn to local unskilled manpower pool like the rural females and school dropouts etc. In the knitwear industry of Ludhiana, it was seen that female employment is less than 2 per

cent of the workforce and females from rural and backward urban areas can be great pool of skilled operators. This labor pool need to be first motivated to come out to work and then comes the need to provide training as per the requirements of the industry. It is a known fact that education and skills training enhance the capability of women and men to apply new techniques, thus increasing their potential for being employed as well as the productivity and competitiveness of enterprises. Training of rural manpower is considered one of the most important strategies for ensuring sustainable development. However mostly rural women are underprivileged in comparison to men in their access and abilities to partake in education and training. The successful skill development model should be economical, replicable as well as sustainable; The main objective of the skill development training is to train rural people to bring about improvement in their income which ultimately leads towards better living standards.



55

Kapila

These skill development trainings are arranged by industrial associations, keeping in view the manpower requirements of local industry. Hence, the present study was undertaken with the objective to conduct a skill development program for rural women and to assess its impact in the rural area of Ludhiana district. MATERIALS AND METHODS A training schedule was prepared for skill development of rural women for sewing operations on industrial machines. For conducting the training, three rural areas were selected by Purposive sampling technique. A total of 30 women each were selected from these rural areas which fall near the periphery of Ludhiana city keeping in mind the proximity of the training area to the probable area of subsequent placement. A training program of one month duration was conducted with the help of certified trainers for skill development of the respondents. For impact assessment of the training program, two sets of interview schedule were prepared. The first interview schedule was prepared for baseline survey of the respondents and the second set was created to check the impact of the training program on rural unemployed women. The data was recorded and evaluated to assess the actual impact of the training program on the social and economic conditions of rural women and their families. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Perception about trainees It was noticed in the baseline survey that due to cultural barriers, females in Punjab are not very open or keen on working in factories especially in the garment industry. It required a continuous array of motivational lectures, success stories and inspiring leaders to break these barriers. Training

curriculum was designed keeping in mind that all the trainees do not possess any work experience of that particular skill. It also depended on the particular requirement of the firms where placement was to be targeted so that trainees could perform efficiently in the firms after training. The duration of the training program was such that trainees not only learned the skill but also achieved a particular speed and efficiency level acceptable in the industry so that they can work at par with previously employed workers, The trained workforce was afterwards convinced to get employed in the industry so that they can earn a salary and raise the standard of living for their families. Providing training centre in the vicinity of their residences created a comfort zone for the trainees to learn required skills and get employment in the industry. Ranking order in improvement The ranking of the areas where an improvement was felt by the respondents as a result of skill development trainings is presented in Table 1 which shows that confidence building among participants ranked first while improvement in their decision making capacities was ranked second. These two improvements fell in between excellent and good categories but decision making tended more toward good category. Income generation also fell in between satisfactory and good categories but tended more toward good category and was ranked third with weighted mean score of 275. Shaista (1989) was of the view that a large number of rural women were willing to take part in income generating activities due to the reason that income levels of their husbands were very low and they wanted increase in income to improve their family living through these activities. The ranking of income generation at number III may be due to the fact

Table 1. Respondents’ perception about the improvement areas as a result of training.

Areas Confidence Building Decision making Income generation Working efficiency Learning ability

Weighted Mean Score 430 315 275 170 160

(n=90)

Rank order I II III IV V

(Scale: 1= Poor, 2=Fair, 3= Satisfactory, 4= Good, 5= Excellent, X= No response 56


Impact Assessment of Skill Development Programme Table 2. Impact of training program on the skill level of respondents. n=90

Skill level Highly skilled Semi skilled Marginally skilled

Frequency 68 12 10

Percentage 75.6 13.3 11.1

stage of being employable by the industry. It was also seen that 11.1 per cent participants in the training program were only marginally skilled after the completion of training duration and were not considered suitable for providing regular employment with the knitwear industry. Employment status of trainees

described by Protz (2001) that when women participate in income-generating activities and have to go outside of their homes to do that, it represents a higher exposure to risk for them especially when their social roles and responsibilities, their mobility in the society and the range of their social interactions are narrowly and very rigidly defined and practiced. Areas like working efficiency and learning ability fell in between fair and poor categories but tended toward fair category and were ranked 4th and 5th with WMS 170 and 160, respectively. Training involves the facilitation of learning by people who can benefit by attaining new knowledge, skills or attitude (Wentling, 1993). Asif (2003) narrated in this connection that training must focus on the real needs of people. Training which fails to meet learning needs is waste of time, effort, and resources. Rural women’s training is necessary especially in case when any formal education is absent. Training programs can enhance their efficiency and competency. Modular training programs like stitching on industrial machine could be fruitful in income generation perspective. According to Anuradha and Reddy (2013) vocational education and training can play a vital role for many of the rural women by improving household productivity, income earning opportunities, employability and also for enhancing food security and promoting sustainable rural development. Impact of training program The respondents were assessed for their skill level on the completion of training program. It was evident (Table 2) that 75.6 per cent participants were able to reach the level of highly skilled person and were considered fully employable in an assembly line of sewing operations while only 13.3 persons were at the level of being semi skilled after the completion of the training program and required further trainings and practice to reach the

As the training programs were conducted with a specific purpose of providing employment to trained persons in knitwear industry as sewing machine operators, it was necessary to check the exact employment status on the completion of training program. The data collected after one month of completion of training program is depicted in Table 3 which shows that even though the percentage of participants who were considered fully employable by the training provider was much higher, the percentage of participants who actually joined as regular workforce stood much lower at 54.4 per cent only. Table 3. Employment status of trainees after completion of training programmme. n=90

Employment Status Regular employment Part time employment Own business Not employed

Frequency 49 14 12 15

Percentage 54.4 15.6 13.3 16.7

The participants who took up part time employment were 15.5 per cent of the total participants while 13.3 per cent of participants started their own small scale business to make use of the skill learned during the training program. As many as 16.7 per cent participants stayed unemployed after successful completion of training program. CONCLUSION It can be concluded from the results that the Skill development training provided was considered useful by rural women and empowered them in certain areas as decision making, confidence building and also generated employment opportunities for a majority of them which could be a great factor in their economic and social upliftment. As a modular training course was designed keeping in mind the requirement of the industry, the training material was well organized and presented in logical


57

Kapila

sequence. However, trainees were not very actively involved in implementing trainings. As the training was organized at a location convenient to the respondents, a few of them attended the training only from the objective of skill development and the employment opportunity was not availed by all the trained respondents. REFERENCES Anuradha R V and Reddy G L (2013). Empowerment of Rural Women Through Vocational Education and Training. Conflux Journal of Education 1(2) , www.naspublishers.com

Asif N (2000). Utilization of Vocational Training Sialkot Region. An Impact Study of NRSP-Sialkot. NRSP Monitoring Assessment and Planning Section. Protz M (2001). Gender Impact Analysis of the Mansehra Village Support Project and the Neelum and Jhelum Valleys Community Development Project, Rome . Available at: ifad.org/ gender/learning/sector/e Shaista, R (1989). A Sociological Study of Immigrant Families in Kachi Abadies of City Faisalabad. Unpublished M.Sc Thesis, Department of Rural Sociology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Wentling T (1993). Planning for Effective Training: A Guide to Curriculum Development. FAO, Italy.


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DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00037.9

Impact of Trainings of Fruits and Vegetable Preservation on the Knowledge and Attitude of Rural Women Kanta Sabharwal* and R.D. Panwar# Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Pandu Pindara, Jind – 126 102 Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana) ABSTRACT Women form the major workforce in agriculture in general. In food processing sector participation of women is substantial particularly upstream activities. Keeping in view of involvement of women in fruits and vegetable processing, the present study was conducted in Jind district of Haryana state. A total of 200 rural women were selected for the study and training was imparted on fruits and vegetable preservation of 12 products. These findings revealed that there was great difference between pre- and post- training exposure, mean score of knowledge and attitude was highly significant. Maximum numbers of respondents has knowledge of products with their ingredients and methods of preparation and also have significant knowledge of precaution while making these products. Most of the respondents have positive attitude to start processing unit at a small scale as it is easy to manage small enterprise at village level. Key Words : Fruit and Vegetable, Preservation, Training, Exposure, Processing, Enterprises. INTRODUCTION India is the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world, contributing 10.2 and 14.5 per cent of the total world production of fruits and vegetables, respectively. Women form the major work force in agriculture in general. In the food processing sector participation of women is substantial particularly in upstream activities. In sector such as marine products, cashew processing, pickle manufacturing, the involvement of women is as high as 90 per cent. Food processing sector generates significant employment. The multiplier effect of investment in food processing industry on employment generation is 2.5 times than in other industrial sectors, higher than any other sector. Even within food processing industry, the employment intensity is significantly higher in the unorganized sector as compared to the organized sector for the same level of investment. A study found that maximum percentage (85 %) of women have participated in vegetable preservation, (57.14 %) were found to participate in transportation of produce and pickle making and 7.14 per cent jam

making (Baba et al, 2009). Viewing the involvement of women in fruit and vegetable processing, the present study was undertaken with specific objective to impart training on selected fruits and vegetables processing technologies and assess its impact in the form of gain in knowledge and attitudinal change of rural women. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present study was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Jind district of Haryana State. A total 200 rural women (20 in each group) were selected for this study and training was imparted on 12 selected products of fruits and vegetables preservation like various type of pickles, sauce and jam etc. The structured interview schedule was used for data collection. In order to measure the knowledge gain and attitudinal change preand post-exposure mean score of knowledge and ‘t’ test was computed to see the significance of the message and percentage was calculated to see the pre- and post-training attitude of women with regard to start a small enterprise or to adopt processing unit as a small income generating activities.



59

Sabharwal and Panwar Table 1. Gain in knowledge of rural women for fruits and vegetable preservation.

Sr. No.

Components

1 2 3

Need for Preservation Method of Preservation Important points to kept in mind while preserving fruits and vegetables Specific information of different pickle, jam, chutney and sauce making Mango pickle Ingredients 7.21 13.04 5.83 Methods of preparation 4.36 8.92 4.56 Precautions 4.20 7.38 3.18 Mango Chutney Ingredients 4.29 7.93 3.64 Methods of preparation 4.07 7.88 3.81 Precautions 3.40 7.52 4.12 Lemon Pickle(sour) Ingredients 5.61 10.84 5.23 Methods of preparation 3.92 6.11 2.19 Precautions 4.02 5.58 1.56 Lemon Pickle(sweet) Ingredients 4.54 9.76 5.22 Methods of preparation 3.26 5.29 2.03 Precautions 4.32 6.80 2.48 Green Chilli Pickle Ingredients 8.72 13.54 4.82 Methods of preparation 6.13 11.24 5.11 Precautions 3.02 5.47 2.45 Mixed Vegetable Pickle Ingredients 7.83 14.94 7.11 Methods of preparation 6.41 12.36 5.95 Precautions 3.62 5.78 2.16 Bitter Ground Pickle Ingredients 4.82 13.25 8.43 Methods of preparation 6.78 14.03 7.25 Precautions 5.09 7.92 2.83 Aonla Pickle Ingredients 3.11 6.49 3.38 Methods of preparation 6.32 11.75 5.43 Precautions 4.24 8.96 4.72 Tomato Sauce Ingredients 8.71 16.11 7.40 Methods of preparation 12.96 25.32 12.36 Precautions 2.76 6.04 3.28 Apple Jam Ingredients 5.21 7.63 2.42 Methods of preparation 6.04 18.24 12.20 Precautions 3.12 5.96 2.84

4 A I II III B I II III C I II III D I II III E I II III F I II III G I II III H I II III I I II III J I II III

60

Pre-exposure (mean-score) 19.26 14.84 13.34

Post-exp (mean-score) 30.17 29.71 25.08


Gain in knowledge 10.91 14.87 11.74

‘t’ Value 19.05* 36.21* 31.46*

17.29* 15.73* 14.21* 14.42* 14.56* 18.01* 17.52* 45.41* 43.51* 19.27* 44.91* 45.84* 32.64* 32.15* 45.32* 18.64* 31.29* 15.32* 21.72* 19.14* 32.62* 15.24* 32.41* 29.85* 46.58* 49.32* 17.26* 7.21* 19.38* 10.72*

Impact of Trainings of Fruits and Vegetable Preservation K I II III L I II III

Mixed Fruit Jam Ingredients Methods of preparation Precautions Aonla Candy Ingredients Methods of preparation Precautions

2.13 5.11 2.08

8.71 20.45 6.92

6.58 5.11 4.84

9.93* 31.14* 15.29*

2.10 3.60 4.26

7.42 8.24 8.92

5.32 2.64 4.66

19.22* 24.41* 15.12*

* Significant at 5% level of probability. Table 2. Pre- and Post exposure attitude towards fruits and vegetables preservation.

Sr. No. Category 1 2 3

Favourable Some what Favourable Not Favourable

Pre-exposure Frequency 57 62 81

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS It was evident from the data (Table 1) that all the rural women respondents possessed low preexposure knowledge in all the fruits and vegetable preservation technologies and after imparting training, respondents gained sufficient knowledge in all the technologies. It also depicted sufficient gain in knowledge regarding preservation technologies like need for preservation (M.S. 10.91) method of preservation (MS 14.87) and important points to be kept in mind, the gain in knowledge while preserving fruits and vegetable was (M.S. 11.74), respectively. Further, majority of the respondents gained maximum knowledge for making different pickles like for bitter guard pickle (M.S. 7.25), mix vegetable pickle (M.S. 5.95), aonla pickle (M.S. 5.43) green chilli pickle (M.S. 5.11) and mango pickle (M.S. 4.56) etc. and respondents gained maximum knowledge in apple jam (M.S. 12.20) and mixed fruits jam (MS 5.11), respectively. Kashyap et al (2000) also showed that skill training was imparted on need based areas related to food processing and income generating activities, trainees acquired sufficient knowledge and attitudinal change and skill acquisition in aforesaid activities. It was evident from Table 2 that majority of the respondents (40.5%) had unfavourable attitude, followed by somewhat favourable (31.0%) and favourable only (25.5%) of preexposure training on attitudinal change. After getting training programme on preservation,

%age 25.5 31.0 40.5

Post-exposure Frequency 129 39 32

%age 64.5 19.5 16.0

majority of the respondents (64.5%) had favourable attitude, followed by somewhat favourable (19.5%) and (16.0%) of respondents had not favourable attitude towards fruits and vegetables preservation. The knowledge level of rural women regarding value addition and products was enhanced because they were capable of making preservative products like pickle, squashes and murraba etc. CONCLUSION During this study a vast change in knowledge was observed which means great difference in pre and post training programme , mean score of knowledge and high favourable attitude after getting training. Most of the respondents have favourable attitude to adopt processing unit at a small scale as it is easy to manage small enterprise at village level. It may therefore be concluded that rural women succeeded in acquiring knowledge after exposure training on preservation. Subsequently all the messages of different preservation technologies got significance at 5 per cent level of significance. REFERENCES Baba Z A, Hakim A H, Ganai N A, Malik K M and Sheikh T A (2009). Role of Rural women in Agriculture and income generating activities. Asian J. Home. Sci. 4(1): 1-3. Kashyap S, Phogat P and Sabharwal K (2000) Action research pertaining to the training of rural women and adolescent girls for improved home practices. Research Report CCS HAU, Hisar.



Accepted on 15/3/2015 61

DOI: 10.5958/2349-4433.2015.00038.0

Knowledge and Adoption Status of Training on Value Addition R G Manjarekar, P M Mandavkar and M S Talathi Krishi Vigyan Kendra Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli-415712 District Ratnagiri (Maharashtra) ABSTRACT The success of any training programme depends on periodic appraisal so that required changes can be made to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme. One hundred and twenty five trainees were imparted training on value addition of fruits and vegetables by conducting 5 vocational training programmes and out of that 55 were selected for this study. The study was undertaken to assess the gain in knowledge of the participants, adoption status of the enterprise and suggestions from the ex-trainees. It was found that maximum adoption of 52 per cent was observed during the year 2011-12. Among the various practices of value addition, maximum knowledge gain (42.9 %) was observed for methods of processing /value added products, aspects of permissible limits of food toxins was least understood by the participants (28.4%) followed by F.P.O. specification(32.0 %). Hence, it was concluded that more emphasis needs be given to these practices during future training courses. The characteristics of the participants viz., educational level, membership of society and extension contact had positive influence on the knowledge gain of the participants. As perceived by 55 entrepreneurs, timely availability of raw material at reasonably low cost (76.4 %), training on advanced processing methods and new value added products with practical demonstration (70.9 %) and advance techniques for preservation and storage (65.5 %) were three major suggestions for successful development of value addition of fruits and vegetables entrepreneurship in Raigad district of Maharashtra. Key Words : Knowledge, Adoption, Training, Value Addition. INTRODUCTION Training programmes organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s (KVK) are very effective tool in any extension methodology being used for dissemination of latest agricultural technologies to the farmers, farm women and rural youth. The success of any training programme depends on periodic appraisal so that required changes can be made to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme. To augment the farmer’s family income, different vocational trainings are being conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Roha working under the aegis of Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli especially for the farm women and rural youth. Value addition can play a significant role to eradicate malnutrition, alleviate poverty and

create employment opportunity for educated unemployed youth and farm women. In this context, there is a wide spread agreement among agriculture scientists to the importance of adoption of value addition of fruits and vegetables as subsidiary occupation in rural areas. During 2008-2009 to 2012-2013, five vocational training programmes of three days duration were organized regarding value addition of fruits and vegetables in which 125 farmers participated. In order to evaluate the outcome of these training programmes, a study was conducted to assess the socioeconomic profile of the trainees, gain in knowledge, adoption status of the enterprise and to get suggestions from the extrainees for enhancing the entrepreneurship in


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Mandavkar et al

value addition of fruits and vegetables among the rural farmers of the district. MATETIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted in Raigad district of Maharashtra state. A performa was developed comprising general information, background of participants such as age, education, occupation, landholding etc. A total of 55 respondents were contacted personally who had started the enterprise to some extent after getting training. To study the gain in knowledge, a simple evaluation performa consisting of 50 questions was prepared. (Five questions for each practice) was distributed among 55 respondents before and after training. One mark was assigned for each correct answer and zero for every incorrect answer.

Thus, 5 marks were given for each practice and total attainable score for each practice came out to be 55 X 5 =275 marks. Hence, gain in knowledge was calculated from the difference of scores obtained in pre and post knowledge test of the trainees. The dependant variable of this study was gain in knowledge of participants. The following characteristics were selected a independent variables namely age, education, family type, membership of society, annual income and extension contact. The relationship was further explored between each of the selected characteristics of participants (independent variables) and their knowledge gain regarding value addition of fruits and vegetables (dependent variable). Furthermore, the data were collected

Table 1. Socio economic profile of the respondents.

Sr. No. 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Parameter AgeYoung (18-25) Middle (25-45) Old (above 45) Education Primary High School Matriculate Higher Secondary & above Occupation Farming Others (service, business and labour) Family type Nucleus Joint Members of a society/organization Gram Vikas Mandal Farmers Club SHGs JLGs Farm size Landless Marginal ( 50,000/Extension contact (Score) Low < 7 Medium 8 to 15 High > 15

(n=55)

Frequency 16 30 9

Percentage 29.1 54.5 16.4

15 18 12 10

27.3 32.7 21.8 18.2

39 16

70.9 29.1

30 25

54.5 45.5

13 12 20 10

23.6 21.8 36.4 18.2

15 28 8 4

27.3 50.9 14.6 7.3

20 28 7

36.4 50.9 12.7

12 28 15

21.8 50.9 27.3


63

Knowledge and Adoption Status of Training

regarding suggestions to boost the value addition entrepreneurship through structured schedule by personal interview with the respondents. The data were tabulated and analyzed using frequency and percentage. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Socio-economic Profile The data (Table1) showed that more than half (54.5 %) of the respondents belong to middle age group. However, nearly one-third (32.7%) respondent’s education was up to high school followed by primary education (27.3%). The trainees were predominantly from rural background. It was observed that 70.9 per cent of the respondents engaged in farming and 54.5 per cent belonged to joint family. The subsidiary occupation of value addition of fruits and vegetables attracted persons from farming background as the inputs required for its processing are readily available from the locality e.g. fruits of raw/ripe mango, jackfruit, karonda, cashew apple, tomato, carrots, lemons etc. All the respondents were members of co-operative society which shows their high social participation. Further 50.9 per cent and 27.3 per cent respondents belong to marginal and landless category, respectively. Regarding Annual income and extension contact it was observed that equal number (28) of respondents belonged to medium level of annual income and extension participant. As value addition of fruits and vegetable enterprise does not require arable land so the respondents from marginal land holding and landless category wanted to adopt this enterprise to augment their family income.

Adoption Status In case of starting the enterprise, maximum adoption of 48.0 per cent was observed during the year 2010-2011 and minimum adoption 36.0 percent during the year 2009-10 (Table 2). The percentage of non- adopters was on higher side (56.0%) probably due to the fact that small scale value addition of fruits and vegetables is a seasonal activity. Another reason for higher rate of non- adoption could be that the farmers do not acquire trainings before starting any enterprise. Similar results were also reported by Rachna et al (2013) and Singh et al (2010). Gain in Knowledge With respect to gain in knowledge, data in Table 3 revealed that, pre-training score of various practices ranged from 17.5 per cent in case of F.P.O. specification to 38.2 per cent in case of use of quality raw material. Post-training score of various practices ranged from 47.3 per cent in case of permissible limits of food toxins to 70.2 per cent in case of methods of processing and value added products. Pre-training knowledge score was not at all satisfactory for all the aspects of training programme. However, the knowledge score after training was quite satisfactory among the participants in all aspects of the training programme except permissible limits of food toxins and F.P.O. specification in which the gain in knowledge was 28.4 per cent and 32.0 percent, respectively. These two aspects were least understand by the participants. Hence, more emphasis needs be given to these practices during training courses.

Table 2. Adoption status of vocational trainings.

Year

No. of participants 25

Adopters

2008-09

No. of l trainings conducted 1

10

Non adopters 15

Percentage adoption (%) 40.0

2009-10

1

25

9

16

36.0

2010-11

1

25

12

13

48.0

2011-12

1

25

13

12

52.0

2012-13

1

25

11

14

44.0

Total

5

125

55

70

44.0

64


Mandavkar et al Table 3. Gain in knowledge about different practices of value addition of fruits and vegetables enterprise.

Technology

Nutritive value and importance of value added products Use of quality raw material Methods of processing /value added products New range of value added products and their recipe Important tools and machineries required for processing Food spoilage and use of different preservatives Food hygiene and adulteration Permissible limits of food toxins Labelling and packaging technology F.P.O. specification (Figures in parenthesis are percentage value)

Relationship between participant’s characteristics and their knowledge gain The nature of relationship between socioeconomic characteristics and their knowledge gain was assessed by correlation co-efficient (Table 4). Out of six, three of the selected characteristics of the participants viz. education (r= 0.59), membership of society (r = 0.67), and extension contact (r = 0.53) showed significant positive correlation with the knowledge gain of participants. The positive and significant correlation indicate that the participants with higher level of education, more social participation and extension contact had better knowledge gain. An interesting findings was that the age of the respondents showed non-significant relationship (r = -0.03) with knowledge gain of participants which lead to the fact that knowledge gain of participants was not affected by the age of the participants. Similarly, family type (r = -0.19) and Annual income (r = 0.09) also showed nonsignificant relationship with knowledge gain of the participants. The above findings were in line with the findings of Jahan et al (2010). Table 4. Correlation between knowledge gain of the participants and their selected characteristics.

Characteristics Age Education Family type Membership of society Annual income Extension contact

Correlation coefficient (r) -0.03 * 0.59 -0.19 * 0.67 0.09* 0.53

* Non significant at p