Constraints and their suggestions in agricultural decision-making among women farmers in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

The study was conducted in Mandsaur district which is situated in Madhya Pradesh. The study were conducted in Twenty villages of Mandsaur, Dalauda, Sitamau and Malhargarh blocks of Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh. The rural economy in India is traditionally based on Agriculture, livestock and household activities. Study found that Ranked as the top two constraints, lack of knowledge (75%) and lack of education (73.33%), indicate significant barriers followed by third-ranked constraint, maximum time devotion to household work (67.67%), male dominance in family decision-making (59.33%) and restrictions due to younger age (25%) further illustrate structural inequality. A lack of access to information and resources significantly hinders decision-making. Training emerged as the top suggestion, supported by 75% of respondents. This underscores the critical need for skill development and capacity-building programs tailored to the specific challenges faced by farm women and ranked second, education was emphasized by 73.33% of respondents, illustrating its central role in fostering informed decision-making. The challenges faced by farm women in decision-making are multidimensional, stemming from socio-cultural, educational, and personal barriers. The suggestions provided by farm women for enhancing their participation in decision-making processes reflect a balanced mix of educational, infrastructural, and motivational needs.