Rashtriya Mahila Kisan Diwas was celebrated at ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture to mark the significant contribution and participation of farm women in agriculture. This year it had an additional significance as the focus was prioritized on the pivotal role of farm women in alleviating malnutrition and enhancing nutritional security. The event was graced by Shri Kailash Choudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India as the Chief Guest. During his Presidential address, he applauded and motivated the farm women nationwide for their immense contribution in agriculture and emphasized the importance of gender equity for enhancing the potential of farm women. Additionally, he focused that nutrition enhancement is critical and should be ensured with multifaceted approaches for holistic development of rural families. Dr Himanshu Pathak, Hon’ble Secretary, DARE & Director General, ICAR, New Delhi graced the programme as Special Guest. He emphasized for collaborative research work with other ICAR Institutes for mainstreaming women farmers. Further, he stated that, ICAR-CIWA should develop a model which will be accepted globally for women empowerment. Dr B. N. Tripathy, Deputy Director General (Animal Science), expressed his compliments towards contribution of farm women in animal husbandry sector and also highlighted the scope of enterpreneurship in the sector. Dr J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), explained about the scope and utilization of village ponds for profitable fish farming by women farmers. Dr R.C. Agrawal, Deputy Director General (Agril. Education), in his address signified the importance of celebrating Rashtriya Mahila Kisan Diwas and activities undertaken by ICAR-CIWA in Nutri-Smart villages through Poshan Abhiyan. He urged the farm women to be instrumental in developing Nutri-Smart villages. At the outset, Dr. Anil Kumar, Director, ICAR-CIWA, welcomed all the Delegates and participants to the programme. The programme also comprised of Farmers’-Scientists Interface to update the farm women on sustainable agriculture techniques, crop varieties and farm management. During the occasion, an exhibition was also arranged to display nutri-dense crop varieties and food items. The women farmers from the Nutri-Smart villages showcased their nutritional traditional food items. The celebration was graced by more than 300 farm women from institute adopted villages and nearly more than 500 women farmers across India joined the celebration through digital mode. The event offered a platform for many farmwomen for sharing their achievements and experiences. The progressive women farmers were also awarded during the event for their outstanding performances in agriculture and allied sector. The programme ended with a formal vote of thanks offered by Dr. Lipi Das, Principal Scientist, ICAR-CIWA and Convener of the programme.
