Participation of Farm Women in Animal Husbandry in Anand District of Gujarat

Animal husbandry signifies as the second largest economical activity next to agriculture in rural areas. It provides employment and economic support to rural families. Many of the important tasks in animal husbandry are performed by women besides their responsibilities as home makers and caring of animals is considered as an extension of domestic activities. The role of dairy farm women is not recognized as economic contribution and they remain as unpaid labour. This study emphasized the participation of dairy farm women in animal husbandry occupation. The study was conducted in Anand district of Gujarat. Data were collected from 120 farm women using structured interview schedule. Study highlighted that farm women took independent decisions in the aspects of fodder management and milking whereas decisions in respect of economic aspects were taken jointly with their male counterparts. The participation was observed more in the aspects related to milking, feeding, health care and management, breeding and less in general aspect of animal husbandry.