Women in Sugarcane Farming: Challenges and Opportunities

Sugarcane industry in India is an important contributor to the national economy through the production of multiple products for national and international consumption. The production and processing of sugarcane is a major source of employment in the country. Women form the backbone of sugarcane cultivation; they still tend to exist as “the hidden farmers” with almost negligible access on land, resources, technologies, financial services, markets and even education. With the growing feminization of agriculture, there is need to develop specific strategies for women in sugarcane agriculture to develop their skills and strengthen their capacities as it significantly contribute to domestic production and employment.