Women in Agrarian Society| Class 12 History Notes

Rural women play a central role in shaping the socio-economic and environmental land of New India. Here are some key points to acknowledge.

• Significance: Rural women are torchbearers for social, economic, and natural transformation.
• Agriculture Employment: Around 80% of rural women in India are employed in agriculture.
• Empowerment: Empowering and integrating rural women into the agricultural workforce can lead to a case shift toward economic growth.

Let us learn more about women in agrarian society!

Women in Indian Agriculture

In many societies, including medieval India, both men and women had specific roles in the production process. Women often engaged in tasks like sowing, weeding, threshing, and winnowing crops, alongside men who tilled the land. Gender segregation between home and work was not feasible in this context, although biases related to women’s biological functions persisted, such as restrictions on menstruating women touching certain tools or entering specific areas.

Artisanal tasks like spinning yarn, pottery, and embroidery heavily relied on female labor, especially as production became more commercialized. Women not only worked in the fields but also went to employers’ houses or markets as necessary. Given their role as child bearers in labor-dependent societies, women were considered vital resources, although high mortality rates among them created shortages of wives, leading to distinct social customs in peasant and artisan communities.

Women’s importance as reproductive forces also led to strict control by male family members and communities, with severe punishments for suspected infidelity. Historical records from Western India document women petitioning village councils for justice, often referring to themselves as relatives of the male head of the household rather than using their names directly.

Despite societal norms, some women, particularly among the landed gentry, had inheritance rights and participated actively in property transactions. Hindu and Muslim women inherited and managed zamindaris, with instances of notable female zamindars in Bengal and elsewhere during the eighteenth century.

Challenges Faced by Women

Social Norms

Traditional gender roles confined women to domestic spheres, limiting their opportunities for education and employment outside the home. Patriarchal societies often enforced strict codes of conduct for women, restricting their autonomy and decision-making power.

Economic Weakness

Their significant contributions to agriculture and household industries, women were economically dependent on men. Legacy laws favored male heirs, leaving women exposed to poverty and exploitation.

Health and Well-being

Women faced health risks associated with strenuous agricultural labor and inadequate healthcare facilities. Limited access to education and healthcare perpetuated cycles of poverty and illiteracy among women.

Growth Dynamics

Devlopment of Women’s Movements

Over time, women’s movements advocated for gender equality and social reforms, challenging traditional norms and discriminatory practices. These movements campaigned for women’s rights to education, employment, and property ownership.

Parliamentary Reforms

Legal reform, such as laws promoting women’s education and property rights, aimed to address gender disparities and empower women economically and socially. However, implementation challenges and resistance from conservative elements hindered the full realization of women’s rights.

Conclusion

The role of rural women in agriculture is crucial for the progress of India. They contribute significantly to economic growth, food security, and poverty alleviation. Despite facing challenges like social norms and economic dependence, efforts are being made to empower them through government initiatives and women’s movements. By addressing these challenges and supporting women in agriculture, India can move closer to achieving its developmental goals and creating a more equitable society.

Women in Agrarian Society- FAQs

Why are rural women important in agriculture?

Rural women are essential because they help in farming and related work, which is crucial for producing food and improving the economy.

How many rural women work in agriculture in India?

Around 80% of rural women in India work in agriculture, which shows how important they are in farming.

What kind of work do rural women do in agriculture?

Rural women do various tasks like planting crops, taking care of animals, and helping with harvesting. They also contribute to activities like weaving, making pottery, and other jobs related to farming.

How does empowering rural women benefit India?

Empowering rural women helps India in many ways. It boosts the economy, makes sure there is enough food for everyone, and helps in reducing poverty.

Are there any government programs to help rural women in agriculture?

Yes, the government has many programs like PMEGP, NRLM, DDU-GKY, PMKVY, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and PMMVY to support and improve the lives of rural women involved in agriculture.

What are the challenges faced by rural women in agriculture?

Rural women face challenges like not getting equal opportunities, depending on others for money, and not having good access to education and healthcare.

How can we help rural women in agriculture?

We can help by supporting initiatives that empower rural women, providing them with education and healthcare, and treating them equally.

What can be done to make sure rural women have better lives?

We can make sure that rural women have equal rights, access to education and healthcare, and opportunities to work and earn money. This way, they can have better lives and contribute more to society.

How can I get involved in helping rural women in agriculture?

You can get involved by supporting organizations that work for women’s rights and empowerment, spreading awareness about their issues, and advocating for policies that benefit rural women. Even small actions like buying products made by rural women can make a difference.